Australian Standard: Design For Access and Mobility

AS 1428.
5—2010
Reconfirmed 2016
AS 1428.5—2010
Australian Standard®
Design for access and mobility
Part 5: Communication for people who

are deaf or hearing impaired
This Australian Standard® was prepared by Committee ME-064, Access for People with
Disabilities. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 29 May 2009.
This Standard was published on 13 May 2010.
The following are represented on Committee ME-064:
• Association of Consultants in Access Australia

• Australian Association of Occupational Therapists
• Australian Building Codes Board
• Australian Industry Group
• Australian Institute of Building
• Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
• Blind Citizens Australia
• Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs
• Consumers Federation of Australia
• Deafness Forum of Australia
• Disabled Persons Assembly New Zealand
• Housing Industry Association
• Master Builders Australia
• Mobility Research Centre New Zealand
• National Acoustic Laboratories
• Physical Disability Council of Australia
• Property Council of Australia
• Royal Australian Institute of Architects
This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 07014.
Standards Australia wishes to acknowledge the participation of the expert individuals that
contributed to the development of this Standard through their representation on the
Committee and through the public comment period.
Keeping Standards up-to-date

Australian Standards® are living documents that reflect progress in science, technology and
systems. To maintain their currency, all Standards are periodically reviewed, and new editions
are published. Between editions, amendments may be issued.
Standards may also be withdrawn. It is important that readers assure themselves they are
using a current Standard, which should include any amendments that may have been
published since the Standard was published.
Detailed information about Australian Standards, drafts, amendments and new projects can
be found by visiting www.standards.org.au
Standards Australia welcomes suggestions for improvements, and encourages readers to

notify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies or ambiguities. Contact us via email at
mail@standards.org.au, or write to Standards Australia, GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001.
AS 1428.5—2010 (Reconfirmed) 2016-05-27
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
RECONFIRMATION
OF
AS 1428.5—2010
Part 5: Communication for people who are deaf or hearing impaired
RECONFIRMATION NOTICE
Technical Committee ME-064 has reviewed the content of this publication and in
accordance with Standards Australia procedures for reconfirmation, it has been
determined that the publication is still valid and does not require change.
Certain documents referenced in the publication may have been amended since the
original date of publication. Users are advised to ensure that they are using the latest
versions of such documents as appropriate, unless advised otherwise in this
Reconfirmation Notice.
Approved for reconfirmation in accordance with Standards Australia procedures for

reconfirmation on 25 September 2015.
The following are represented on Technical Committee ME-064:

Association of Consultants in Access Australia
Australian Association of Occupational Therapists
Australian Blindness Forum
Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Industry Group
Australian Institute of Architects
Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
AUSTROADS
Blind Citizens Australia
Consumers Federation of Australia
Disabled Persons Assembly New Zealand
Housing Industry Association
Master Builders Australia
Mobility Research Centre New Zealand
Physical Disability Australia
Property Council of Australia
Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind
NOTES
AS 1428.5—2010
Australian Standard®
Part 5: Communication for people who

are deaf or hearing impaired
First published as AS 1428.5—2010.
COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia
All rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the written
permission of the publisher.
Published by Standards Australia GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 978 0 7337 9490 2
AS 1428.5—2010 2
PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee ME-064, Access
for People with Disabilities.
The objective of this Standard is to assist in the provision of an environment in
which people who are Deaf or who have a hearing impairment are included and can
share in information and communicate with all members of the community.
This Standard is part of a series that is comprised of the following:
AS
1428 Design for access and mobility
1428.1 Part 1: General requirements for access—New building work
1428.2 Part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements—Buildings and facilities
1428.3 Part 3: Requirements for children and adolescents with physical
disabilities
1428.4.1 Part 4.1: Tactile ground surface indicators for the orientation of people
with vision impairment
1428.5 Part 5: Communication for people who are deaf or hearing impaired
(this Standard)
This Standard was formulated as part of the expanded suite of Standards that was
conceived to provide a set of requirements to satisfy the Disability Discrimination
Act (1992).
The term ‘shall’ has been used in this Standard for mandatory requirements and the
term ‘should’ has been used for desirable (best practice) and/or other measures
which, while recommended, are not considered to be mandatory.
The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define
the application of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an
integral part of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information
and guidance.
3 AS 1428.5—2010
CONTENTS
Page
FOREWORD...............................................................................................................5
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION

1.1 SCOPE ..........................................................................................................7
1.2 APPLICATION ...............................................................................................7
1.3 NORMATIVE REFERENCES .........................................................................7
1.4 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................8
1.5 ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................................................11
SECTION 2 HEARING LOSS

2.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................13
2.2 ENVIRONMENT ..........................................................................................13
2.3 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs) ................................13
2.4 IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING ......................................................................13
2.5 INCIDENCE OF HEARING LOSS IN AUSTRALIA ........................................14
2.6 DEGREES OF HEARING LOSS AND COMMUNICATION ...........................14
2.7 EXCESSIVE NOISE LEVELS.......................................................................15
SECTION 3 SITUATIONS REQUIRING HEARING AUGMENTATION

3.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................16
3.2 PUBLIC MEETING AREAS ..........................................................................16
3.3 LIFTS...........................................................................................................17
3.4 COUNTERS AND SIMILAR SITUATIONS ....................................................17
3.5 TELECOMMUNICATIONS ...........................................................................17
3.6 TRANSPORT CONVEYANCES ...................................................................18
3.7 SECURITY BARRIERS ................................................................................18
3.8 COVERAGE ................................................................................................19
SECTION 4 REQUIREMENTS FOR ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS(ALSs)

4.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................20
4.2 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs) ................................20
4.3 ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS) SPECIFICATIONS ........................21
4.4 AUDIO FREQUENCY INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM (AFILS)........................23
4.5 MODULATED RADIO SYSTEMS .................................................................30
4.6 INFRA-RED (IR) SYSTEM ...........................................................................32
4.7 SOUND FIELD AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM (SFAS) ......................................33
4.8 SIGNAL SOURCE........................................................................................34
4.9 TESTING .....................................................................................................35
4.10 TRAINING ...................................................................................................35
4.11 ENVIRONMENTAL ELECTROMAGNETIC NOISE .......................................38
4.12 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS................................................................39
SECTION 5 SIGNAGE
5.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................40
5.2 BUILDINGS .................................................................................................41
5.3 TRANSPORT CONVEYANCES ...................................................................42
5.4 OUTDOOR VENUES ...................................................................................43
AS 1428.5—2010 4
Page
SECTION 6 REQUIREMENTS FOR WARNING AND ALERTING SYSTEMS

6.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................50
6.2 EMERGENCY WARNING SYSTEMS...........................................................50
6.3 AUXILIARY ALERTING DEVICES................................................................52
6.4 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS IN LIFT CARS.......................52
SECTION 7 COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

7.1 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS.......................................................................53
7.2 AUDIO SIGNAGE ........................................................................................53
7.3 WAYFINDING ..............................................................................................53
7.4 SECURITY INTERCOM SYSTEMS..............................................................53
7.5 REQUIREMENTS OF VISUAL COMMUNICATORS, INTERPRETERS AND
LIPREADERS ..............................................................................................54
SECTION 8 LIGHTING SPECIFICATIONS

8.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................55
8.2 ILLUMINATION............................................................................................55
8.3 DIRECTION AND CONTRAST.....................................................................55
8.4 GLARE ........................................................................................................56
SECTION 9 CAPTIONING AND CART

9.1 CAPTIONS ..................................................................................................57
9.2 REGULATION AND CODES FOR CAPTIONING OF TELEVISION AND
VIDEO .........................................................................................................57
9.3 CAPTIONING OF MOVIES FOR CINEMA SCREENING AND ON DVD........58
9.4 COMPUTER-AIDED REAL-TIME TRANSCRIPTION (CART) .......................58
APPENDICES
A AFILS TEST AND MONITORING .................................................................60
B MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM TEST AND MONITORING ..........................68
C INFRA-RED (IR) TEST AND MONITORING .................................................76
D AUDIO FREQUENCY INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM (AFILS)........................83
BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................... 96
5 AS 1428.5—2010
FOREWORD
Clinical assessment of hearing loss in a section of the Australian population aged
over 15 years shows that hearing loss affects approximately 22% of the community
(Hearing impairment in an Australian Population, Wilson et al 1998). Additional
clinical studies (Blue Mountains Hearing Study 1997–99, Mitchell P., 2002) show
that age-related hearing loss increases steeply with age from 11% for people aged
between 55 and 59 years to 24% for people aged between 60 and 69 years, to 51%
for people aged between 70 and 79 years, to 78% for people aged over 80 years.
Listen hear! The economic cost and impact of hearing loss in Australia by Access
Economics (2006), shows that 1 in 6 Australians have some form of hearing loss,
and this is projected to increase to 1 in 4 by 2050.
Some 20 children per 10 000 births are born with a hearing loss while another
12 children per 10 000 acquire at least a moderate hearing impairment through
accident, illness or other causes before the age of 17 years (Australian Hearing
Information Sheet 1S 17.A, Anon 2004).
The causes of hearing loss are many: disease, hereditary factors, accidents (head
injury), exposure to loud noise and the ageing process, which are the most common
reasons for hearing loss. Acquired hearing loss accounts for the largest percentage
of people with a hearing impairment. This is often a gradual process, which,
depending on the type and degree of hearing loss, can have significant impact on
daily listening, communication and quality of life.
The Standard deals with principles to consider when providing facilities for people
who are Deaf or hearing impaired. Factors affecting speech intelligibility and
hearing augmentation are also considered, including electromagnetic interference
to communication equipment. Assistive listening systems (ALSs) are discussed in
depth, including systems suitable for lifts and those suitable for use at security
entrances. Auditory, visual and tactile alarm systems for use as early warning
systems are also covered. Visual communication, using captions for information,
public announcements and on large screens at sporting events and similar
situations, is also described. There are sections on communication systems suitable
for transport conveyances, telecommunications, and personal response systems.
The appendices describe methods of test for assistive listening system equipment
and information on audio loop systems together with good acoustic environments.
Good quality communication systems will benefit all people, including those from
non-English speaking backgrounds, especially in crowded areas. No one solution
will suit all people with hearing loss. The following Table provides a brief overview
of the degrees of hearing loss and the most common design solutions to assist with
effective communication.
The effects of hearing loss and associated conditions can have a significant impact
on the individual’s lifestyle. Attention must be given to providing appropriate
acoustic environments that incorporate well-designed amplification and assistive
listening systems (ALSs).
Hearing loss often requires a variety of new skills to be learned, e.g., lipreading,
communication strategies, and/or sign language. It also requires access to a wide
range of assistive technology, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive
listening devices and assistive listening systems (ALSs) for indoor areas such as
theatres, places of worship, transport terminals, transport conveyances and
outdoors. To facilitate lipreading and the use of sign language attention must be
given to appropriate lighting and background decor.
AS 1428.5—2010 6
EFFECTS OF HEARING LOSS AND POSSIBLE DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Degree of Average hearing Possible hearing

Effects
hearing loss threshold range augmentation solutions
Normal hearing 0–20 dB HL Good acoustic environment

—
and amplification system.
Mild hearing 21–40 dB HL Understanding soft speech or Good acoustic environment
loss speech in a noisy environment and amplification system.
is likely to be difficult.
Hearing aids sometimes used.
Moderate 41–60 dB HL Has trouble understanding Good acoustic environment
hearing loss speech in all situations when with amplification system.
unaided. Induction loop or other
Benefits from visual cues assistive listening system, i.e.,
(lipreading) in most situations. infra-red or modulated radio
Unable to follow what is said in system.
large open areas.
Hearing aids often used. They
assist considerably with
understanding speech, but
difficulties remain in noisy or
reverberant situations.
Severe hearing 61–90 dB HL Unable to hear normal speech Good acoustic environment
loss when unaided. with amplification and
Depends on visual clues induction loop, or other
(lipreading or sign language). assistive listening systems,
i.e., infra-red or modulated
Hearing aids usually used. radio system.
They assist considerably with
understanding speech and May require visual (text)
identifying environmental communication mode in noisy
sounds, but difficulties in situations.
communication remain in most Some may require signing or
listening situations. interpreter.
Profound >91 dB HL Considered deaf. Depends on a visual
hearing loss Will hear only very loud communication mode, i.e.,
sounds when not wearing lipreading, sign language or a
hearing aids. combination of both.
Does not rely on hearing as Requires signing or

primary channel for interpreting and/or visual text
communication, even when system.
wearing hearing aids.
May wear hearing aids to
assist with environmental and
warning sounds and the
rhythm of speech. Hearing aids
may be of limited or no benefit.
LEGEND:
HL = hearing loss
NOTE: Classification and effects provided by National Acoustics Laboratories.
The Standard relates to hotels, motels, retail, commercial and industrial buildings,
places of assembly, places of worship, recreational facilities commercial
accommodation buildings, terminals, transport conveyances and the like. It will
assist building designers, building outfitters and users (architects, property owners,
regulators and the like) by providing details of the minimum design requirements for
outfitting a building or transport conveyance to enable full access for people who
are deaf or hearing impaired.
7 AS 1428.5—2010
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Part 5: Communication for people who are deaf or hearing impaired
S E CT IO N 1 S C O P E AN D A P P L I C ATI O N
1.1 SCOPE
This Standard sets out requirements for the design, application and testing of
assistive listening systems (ALSs). It also provides information to enable access to
communication for people who have a hearing impairment or who are deaf.
This Standard provides information in relation to varying degrees of hearing loss,
and design solutions and equipment including—
(a) assistive listening systems (ALSs), speech intelligibility and environmental
interference;
(b) assistive listening systems’ (ALSs) application in the built and transport
environments, indoor and outdoor;
(c) early warning systems—auditory, visual, and tactile requirements;
(d) visual display systems for intercommunication, public announcements and the
like; and
(e) telephone services and telecommunications available to the public.
1.2 APPLICATION
This Standard is intended for use by planners, designers, regulators, builders,
facility managers and operators of buildings, terminals and conveyances to choose
appropriate design solutions and equipment for the design, installation, operation
and maintenance of assistive listening, communication and warning systems.
This Standard is applicable where amplification systems are installed, where visual
augmentation is required for audio announcements, for telecommunications
systems, for early warning systems, or other communication services associated
with access and egress, regardless of location (i.e., building, terminal, or
conveyance).
1.3 NORMATIVE REFERENCES

The following documents are normative references in this Standard:
NOTE: Documents referenced for informative purposes are listed in the Bibliography.
AS
1428 Design for access and mobility
1428.2 Part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements—Buildings and
facilities
www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

AS 1428.5—2010 8
AS
1603 Automatic fire detection and alarm systems
1603.11 Part 11: Visual warning devices
1670 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems—System
design, installation and commissioning
1670.1 Part 1: Fire
1670.4 Part 4: Sound systems and intercom systems for emergency
purposes
1670.6 Part 6: Smoke alarms
1680 Interior and workplace lighting (Series)
1735 Lifts, escalators and moving walks
1735.12 Part 12: Facilities for persons with disabilities
2700 Colour Standards for general purposes
AS/NZS
1158 Lighting for roads and public spaces (all parts)
1680 Interior and workplace lighting
1680.1 Part 1: General principles and recommendations
2107 Acoustics—Recommended design sound levels and reverberation
times for building interiors
3827 Lighting system performance—Accuracies and tolerances
3827.2 Part 2: Compliance requirements
4277 Text telecommunications—User interface requirements—For Deaf
people and people with hearing and speech disabilities
ISO
8201 Acoustics—Audible emergency evacuation signal
Deafness The Captioning Quality Code of Practice
Forum
1.4 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply.
1.4.1 Assistive listening system (ALS)
1 A system for enhancing speech intelligibility ‘of sound’ at the ear of the
listener by enhancing a speech signal or conversation to achieve a signal to
noise ratio (S/N) by reducing background noise and reverberation and
increasing volume.
2 A transmitting and receiving system to aid listening by increasing the signal to
a desired level above the background noise and providing an amplification of
sound to improve speech intelligibility and acoustic qualities for people who
are hearing impaired.
1.4.2 Audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS)
An amplified transmitting sound system that is connected to a loop cable that
generates a magnetic field, which is utilized by a person wearing a hearing
prosthesis with a T-switch.
© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

9 AS 1428.5—2010
1.4.3 Auslan (Australian Sign Language)

The sign language used by the Deaf community in Australia, which is a recognized
community language.
NOTE: Other forms of sign language, other than Auslan, are also used, including finger
spelling and Signed English.
1.4.4 Cochlear implant
A hearing prosthesis that electrically stimulates the inner ear. It has an external
processor that may look similar to a hearing aid. Also referred to as a bionic ear.
NOTE: The need for hearing augmentation for the majority of cochlear implantees is
similar to that required by hearing aid users with a severe hearing loss; however, some
cochlear implantees have needs similar to those required by hearing aid users with a
profound hearing loss.
1.4.5 Deafness
Several terms are related to hearing loss and deafness and are used in different
ways by different people. The word deaf is a key example, as ‘Deaf’ (with a capital
‘D’) has a different meaning to ‘deaf’ (with a lower case ‘d’). Another related term is
‘hearing impaired’.
1.4.5.1 Deaf
Colloquially, deaf (with a lower case ‘d’) is used by the general public to include
anyone with a hearing impairment of any degree. Correct use refers to people with
severe to profound hearing loss, who use an oral mode of communication and
consider themselves part of the hearing community.
1.4.5.2 Deaf/Deaf community
The word Deaf (with a capital ‘D’) is used to describe people with a hearing loss
who communicate primarily via sign language (in Australia this is Auslan), who
consider themselves to be members of the Deaf community by virtue of its language
and culture.
1.4.6 Frequency response
A measure of the degree of amplification, which varies with the frequency of the
incoming signal.
1.4.7 Glare
Unwanted direct or reflected light, which can occur whenever one part of an interior
is much brighter than the general brightness of the interior. Glare can impair vision
(disability glare) and can cause discomfort (discomfort glare). Disability glare and
discomfort glare can occur simultaneously or separately.
1.4.8 Hearing aid
A personal device, used by people who are deaf or hearing impaired, for amplifying
sound. It consists of a microphone, amplifier and earphone or bone vibrator, or
implanted device.
1.4.9 Hearing aid telephone coupler
An internal or external telephone handset device that has an induction coil that
converts the audio signal into a magnetic signal to be picked up by a hearing aid
with a T-switch.

AS 1428.5—2010 10
1.4.10 Hearing augmentation

The communication of information for people who are Deaf or hearing impaired by
using a combination of audio, visual, and tactile means.
NOTE: Assistive listening systems (ALSs), flashing lights, vibrating alert system,
telephone typewriters (TTYs) and sign language are examples of ‘hearing augentation’.
1.4.11 Hearing impaired
Used to describe people with a hearing loss who communicate predominantly orally.
1.4.12 Illumination
The process of lighting an object, or the quantity of light arriving at a surface.
NOTE: The physical measure of illumination is illuminance.
1.4.13 Inductive receiver
A portable device that picks up a magnetic signal and converts it to sound.
NOTE: Commonly referred to as a loop receiver.
1.4.14 Infra-red (IR) system
A wireless light transmission system that transmits sound via modulated infra-red
waves from an infra-red transmitter (also called an emitter) to an infra-red receiver.
1.4.15 Interactive audio signage
An information or wayfinding system that interactively communicates a verbal
message at specific locations in the environment.
1.4.16 Lipreading
The process by which a lip reader observes the lip movements, facial expression
and body language of the person speaking, to gain information and understanding
of the spoken word.
1.4.17 Loop cable
The output part of an AFILS (see Clause 1.4.2) consisting of a loop or coil of wire
that generates a magnetic field in the acoustic bandwidth, which is transmitted to
the hearing aid (or other inductive receiver).
1.4.18 Lux (lx)
A derived SI unit of measurement for illuminance (illumination), representing the
luminous flux per unit area, as lumens per square metre (lm/m2 ) of surface
(1 lm/m 2 = 1 lx = 0.093 foot-candles).
1.4.19 Modulated radio system
A wireless device that transmits sound via modulated radio carrier waves to a
receiver.
1.4.20 Reverberation
The persistence of reflected sound.
1.4.21 Shall
Indicates that a statement is mandatory.
1.4.22 Should
Indicates that a statement is a recommendation.

11 AS 1428.5—2010
1.4.23 Signal to noise ratio (S/N)

The difference in level, measured in decibels (dB), between the wanted signal and
the unwanted signal.
1.4.24 Sound field amplification system (SFAS)
A specialized amplified sound system for a meeting room, which provides low-level
amplification, an even distribution of sound through the room and reduces the
effects of reverberation.
1.4.25 Speech intelligibility
A measure of the proportion of the content of a speech message that can be
correctly understood.
1.4.26 Stetoclip
A device that couples sounds to the ear canals.
NOTE: The purpose of the stetoclip is that it may be used as an alternative to
headphones. The stetoclip sits under the user's chin (rather that over the head like
headphones), and is connected to both ears. Typically, a stetoclip has tubing from the
sound source below the chin to each ear, and the sound source is electrically driven.
1.4.27 T-switch
A switch that activates the telecoil (see Clause 1.4.28) in the hearing aid. It is the
switch setting of a personal hearing aid that provides access to an AFILS, or the
hearing aid telephone coupler in a telephone receiver.
1.4.28 Telecoil
The internal induction coil of a hearing aid that receives audio frequency induction
loop signals. It is activated by the T-switch on the hearing aid.
1.4.29 Telephone typewriter (TTY)
A telephone handset with an alphanumeric keyboard that enables interactive text
communication over a telephone landline between two people. A transmitted typed
message is received on a display panel or as printed message. A TTY is also a
form of text telephone.
1.5 ABBREVIATIONS
ACMA Australian Communication and Media Authority
AFILS Audio frequency induction loop system
AFL Above floor level
AGC Automatic gain control
AGL Above ground level
ALS Assistive listening system
Auslan Australian sign language
CART Computer aided real-time captioning
CIS Common speech intelligibility scale
EMC Electromagnetic compatibility
EMR Electromagnetic radiation
EWIS Emergency warning and intercommunication system
FM Frequency modulation

AS 1428.5—2010 12
GSM Global system for mobile communication

HREOC Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission
IR Infra-red
lx Lux
PA Public address system
RASRI Rapid acoustic speech transmission index
s.s.e.p Sound system for emergency purposes
SFAS Sound field amplification system
S/N Signal to noise ratio
SPL Sound pressure level
TTY Telephone typewriter
WCDMA Wide band code division multiple access

13 AS 1428.5—2010
S E CT IO N 2 H E A R I N G L O S S
2.1 GENERAL
Persons with a hearing loss may or may not have a personal hearing aid or a
cochlear implant fitted. When choosing an assistive listening system the outcome
should enable access for people with a hearing impairment who—
(a) are not wearing hearing aids;
(b) have hearing aids or cochlear implants without a telecoil (T-switch); and
(c) have hearing aids or cochlear implants with a telecoil (T-switch).
2.2 ENVIRONMENT
Successful communication depends on the ability to effectively hear and understand
sound. An important measure of successful communication is speech intelligibility.
For any degree of hearing loss, effective speech intelligibility relies on appropriate
acoustic environment. The acoustic environment shall be in accordance with
AS/NZS 2107. Other aspects to consider are—
(a) reverberation from sound reflection;
(b) background noise from building services, equipment, and occupants;
(c) distance from the sound source, and volume and shape of the room;
(d) qualities of the assistive listening systems (ALSs);
(e) other variable factors such as contents of the room, crowd size, and the like;
and
(f) relationship between sender and receiver, including direct line of sight.
2.3 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs)

Persons with a hearing loss may or may not have a personal hearing aid or a
cochlear implant fitted. When choosing an ALS the outcome should enable
communication by all people with hearing impairment whether they wear hearing
aids, or have hearing aids or cochlear implants without a telecoil (T-switch), or have
hearing aids or cochlear implants with a telecoil (T-switch).
ALS types include—
(a) audio frequency induction loop systems (AFILSs);
(b) modulated radio systems (commonly referred to as FM systems); and
(c) infra-red (IR) systems.
2.4 IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING

People with a hearing loss will usually supplement their aural communication with
lipreading and/or sign language. Even people with normal hearing unconsciously
use lipreading to aid communication.
Attention shall be given to appropriate lighting levels, lighting direction and
background decor to enable clear visual contact with the source, including reduction
of glare and covering exposed light sources.

AS 1428.5—2010 14
2.5 INCIDENCE OF HEARING LOSS IN AUSTRALIA

Approximately 22% of the Australian population between the ages of 15 and
65 years have some level of hearing loss.
NOTE: The incidence of hearing loss in Australia is discussed in the Foreword.
2.6 DEGREES OF HEARING LOSS AND COMMUNICATION

2.6.1 General
There are several recognized degrees of hearing loss (see Table in Foreword),
which may be classified as—
(a) mild;
(b) moderate;
(c) severe; and
(d) profound.
A commonly used definition of these categories, the likely consequences of the
hearing loss and the type of augmentation most commonly needed are given in the
Table of the Foreword. The categorization given in the Table in the Foreword is a
simplification. For example, two people with the same degree of hearing loss can
have different speech identification abilities, and benefit by different degrees from
different technical solutions. No one technical solution will suit all people with a
hearing impairment. Therefore, attention needs to be given to providing appropriate
acoustic environments that incorporate well-designed amplification and ALSs.
Good quality communication systems will benefit all people, including those from
non-English speaking backgrounds, especially in crowded areas.
For many people with hearing loss, detection of sound is further complicated by
total loss of selected frequencies. They rely on both visual and auditory clues for
communication.
2.6.2 Mild hearing loss and communication
People with mild hearing loss have difficulty understanding speech, particularly in a
noisy environment. They may have difficulty hearing and understanding even in
ideal conditions and may wear hearing aids. Sound field amplification systems in a
good acoustic environment will provide improved communication access for people
with mild hearing loss.
2.6.3 Moderate hearing loss and communication
Communication is significantly difficult for people with moderate hearing loss and
they will be unable to follow what is said in large open areas without visual clues.
Although hearing aids assist hearing, there will still be poor clarity of speech. A
good acoustic environment with an amplification system plus an induction loop or
other ALS, such as infra-red or modulated radio system, will assist people with
moderate hearing loss. Clear speech or supplementary sign language may also be
of benefit.

15 AS 1428.5—2010
2.6.4 Severe hearing loss and communication

People with severe hearing loss will be unable to hear normal speech, and will
depend for communication on visual clues such as lipreading or sign language.
Hearing aids may assist with some speech sounds and in identifying environmental
sounds. In addition to a good acoustic environment with an amplification system
plus an induction loop or other ALS such as infra-red or modulated radio system,
people with severe hearing loss may require signing or deaf oral interpreters or may
require visual (text) communication mode in noisy situations.
2.6.5 Profound hearing loss and communication
Although people with profound hearing loss may hear some loud sounds, they are
considered deaf/Deaf. When people can not hear any meaningful speech
communication, even with the aid of a hearing prosthesis, visual communication is
paramount. Sign language and textual information is essential to enable
communication for people who are deaf/Deaf or have a profound hearing
impairment. One in 200 Australians (0.5%) have a severe to profound hearing loss
where visual communication is the only effective form of communication.
Some people who have a severe to profound hearing loss may also supplement
their primary visual communication by using a hearing prosthesis; however, this will
only serve to assist with environmental and warning sounds and the rhythm of
speech. Where an excellent acoustic environment is provided, speech intelligibility
will be enhanced and may enable some speech recognition by people with profound
hearing impairment and who use a prosthesis.
People who have a profound hearing loss and who use a hearing prosthesis
experience extreme communication difficulties if they are in a noisy environment.
These people require signing or deaf oral interpreting and/or visual text systems for
communication.
A proportion of people who are Deaf prefer to participate in a community where sign
language (Auslan) is their first language.
2.7 EXCESSIVE NOISE LEVELS

Excessive noise levels can severely affect people with hearing loss and should be
prevented by appropriate management. Examples include public address
systems (PAs) turned up too loud, excessive changes in amplitude and loud
background music.
Under some circumstances excessive noise levels may force a hearing aid user to
switch off their hearing aid thus preventing further communication.
The effect of excessive noise may be exacerbated when the noise is transmitted via
an ALS.

AS 1428.5—2010 16
S E CT IO N 3 S ITU ATI ON S R E Q U I R IN G
HE A RI NG A UG ME N TATI ON
3.1 GENERAL
This Standard requires that hearing augmentation be provided in a variety of
situations as follows:
(a) Counters connected with service provision to the public without partitions
(e.g., reception, enquiry desks, supermarket checkouts, and the like).
(b) Counters connected with service provision to the public with partitions (e.g.,
box office, ticket windows, bank teller windows and the like).
(c) Meeting areas seating more than five participants (e.g., conference rooms,
auditoria, theatres, rooms for judiciary purposes, arenas, places of worship,
sporting venues and the like).
(d) Lifts.
(e) Intercommunication systems.
(f) Telecommunication systems.
(g) Emergency warning systems.
(h) Where PA systems are provided (e.g., public facilities, shopping centres,
transport facilities and the like).
(i) Transport conveyances.
(j) Security checkpoints.
Hearing augmentation used in these situations enables effective communication.
The ‘public’ refers to occupants of the building, inclusive of staff and visitors.
3.2 PUBLIC MEETING AREAS

All public meeting areas shall provide any or all of the following, as required by the
public:
(a) Functioning ALSs to enable all participants to clearly hear speakers and other
participants without significant reverberation or background noise and, for all
participants using the provided ALS—
(i) headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces (for participants without
telecoils or without hearing aids); and
(ii) inductive neck loops, except where the area is covered by an AFILS (for
participants with telecoils).
(b) Computer-aided real-time captioning (CART) systems to enable all
participants who need such systems to follow what all speakers and
participants say.
(c) Sign language interpreters to enable Deaf participants who need such
interpreters to follow what is being said by all speakers and participants and to
contribute to the events themselves.
(d) Access to captioning on television sets and video display facilities being used
for an event or meeting.

17 AS 1428.5—2010
All public meeting areas shall have appropriate means in place to ensure that all
Deaf or hearing-impaired users in those areas will be alerted to any danger (e.g.,
fire, bomb threat), and to any evacuation drill or system test within the premises, at
the same time as all other venue users.
3.3 LIFTS
All lifts shall provide functioning systems to enable all persons to communicate with
others not in the lift and to receive all information being communicated to
passengers.
Emergency communication systems in enclosed lifts shall comply with Clause 4.3
and AS 1735.12.
3.4 COUNTERS AND SIMILAR SITUATIONS

Counters and similar situations (such as supermarket checkouts and inquiry desks)
shall provide functioning ALSs, to enable all persons making enquiries to clearly
hear staff.
The ALSs shall be provided at any place where a service provider deals with a
client or customer, including all classes of counters. Where multiple counters in one
location provide the same service, and the user has a choice of which counter to
use, ALSs shall be provided at a minimum proportion of 20% of each class of
counters at each location.
3.5 TELECOMMUNICATIONS
3.5.1 Mobile phones
Hearing aids that meet Class 2 requirements of AS/NZS 1088.9 may be used
acoustically with Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) handsets.
Telecoil operation is not generally possible with GSM mobile phone handsets
unless a telecoil attachment is used.
Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) mobile phone handsets may be
used with many hearing aids acoustically, and with the telecoil in some cases.
All mobile phone handsets shall provide two-way communication when used by
persons with hearing loss. Attachments may be required to achieve this.
3.5.2 Payphones
The following applies:
(a) All payphones shall have an adjustable volume control that results in the level
of sound from the earpiece of the payphone being a minimum of 20 dB above
that specified for the earpiece of a standard handset connected to the
standard telephone service. On hang-up, the volume shall revert to normal.
(b) All payphones with adjustable volume controls shall reduce side tone ratio
when the volume control is increased.
NOTE: Increasing the volume control also increases the background noise received
by the payphone mouthpiece.
(c) All payphones shall emit a magnetic field strength from the handset receiver
greater than −23 dB relative to 1 A/m at 1 kHz for at least one setting of the
volume control.
(d) All payphones shall have adequate background noise attenuation ability.

AS 1428.5—2010 18
(e) For public telephones to be accessible by all members of the public (including
wheelchair users with hearing loss), in every bank of telephones, a minimum
of one telephone shall—
(i) have TTY capabilities,
(ii) be wheelchair accessible; and
(iii) be equipped for both coin and card operation.
(f) The location of TTY-equipped payphones shall be indicated by the
international access symbol for deafness, as illustrated in Figure 5.1.
(g) All TTY-equipped payphones shall be identified by the international access
symbol for telephone typewriters, as illustrated in AS/NZS 4277.
(h) All TTY-equipped payphones shall be capable of communicating with all other
TTYs sold in Australia and with the National Relay Service. Clear and concise
instructions for using such payphones shall be clearly displayed at their
locations.
Where TTY-equipped payphones are provided in shopping areas, or any location
with an information stand, such information stand (or directory boards with maps)
shall indicate where the TTY-equipped payphones are located.
3.6 TRANSPORT CONVEYANCES

In any situation where information and/or entertainment is provided, and where
participants with normal hearing are expected to listen either directly or via
headphones or equivalent, provision shall be made to allow hearing aid wearers to
listen in a similar manner.
Where such information and/or entertainment is provided visually (e.g., video,
television), the sound content shall be captioned.
If a public address system is installed—
(a) people who are deaf or have a hearing impairment shall be able to receive a
message equivalent to the message received by people without a hearing
impairment; and
(b) an ALS to aid hearing-impaired people shall be installed or made available to
a minimum of 50% of the conveyance.
Where electrically or acoustically driven headsets are provided for passengers with
hearing loss, the following shall be made available:
(i) Induction neck loops for the use of hearing aid wearers.
(ii) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces.
All provisions shall meet the requirements of this Standard.
3.7 SECURITY BARRIERS

This Clause applies to situations where security checks are performed. Examples of
security barrier locations include—
(a) library exits;
(b) retail store exits;
(c) airport security entrances;
(d) office security barriers; and

19 AS 1428.5—2010
(e) financial institutions;

and similar situations.
Where an audible alarm will be triggered to alert a person that they have breached
a security barrier, there shall be a visible alert within the forward field of vision of
the person who triggers the alarm.
Where the security barrier is at the property/tenancy boundary and the barrier is for
the purposes of theft protection only, the visible alert may be a flashing light on the
security barrier.
3.8 COVERAGE
3.8.1 Audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS)
Where the required hearing augmentation system is an AFILS, it shall be provided
to not less than 80% of the space.
NOTE: For additional guidance on AFILS, see Appendix D.
3.8.2 Modulated radio system or infra-red system
Where the required hearing augmentation system is a modulated radio system or
infra-red system, it shall be available to not less than 95% of the space, with a
minimum number of receivers for 16.7% of the capacity for the space. A minimum of
20% of these receivers shall include neck loops.
NOTES:
1 16.7% is based on ‘Listen Hear! The economic cost and impact of hearing loss in
Australia’ by Access Economics (2006), which shows that 1 in 6 Australians have
some form of hearing loss, and this is projected to increase to 1 in 4 by 2050.
2 The 20% of receivers to incorporate neck loops is based on the 2006 Libby Harricks
Memorial Oration, delivered by Professor Harvey Dillon, Director of the National
Acoustic Laboratories and Deputy Director of the Cooperative Research Centre for
Hearing Aids Innovation.

AS 1428.5—2010 20
S E CT IO N 4 R E Q U I R EME N TS F O R
A S S I ST IV E LI STE N I N G S YS TE MS ( AL S s)
4.1 GENERAL
When listening to a sound system, the sound from the speakers bounces off all the
surfaces in the environment, resulting in reverberation and blurred sound for
hearing-impaired users.
The purpose of an assistive listening system (ALS) is to place a microphone close
to the wanted source of sound, to increase the ratio of wanted sound to unwanted
sound such as reverberation and background noise.
The sound signals delivered by the ALS are not weakened by distance or degraded
by noise and reverberation during the transmission process because they do not
travel acoustically to the listeners’ ears.
The audio signals from the ALS shall either come from the sound source via a
microphone (placed in close proximity to the sound source) or come directly from
the electrical output of audio sources (e.g., CD player, video).
The input requirements are common for all types of ALS.
A sound field amplification system (SFAS) operates on a different principle by
improving speech intelligibility through the use of a shorter, direct sound path from
speaker to ear, resulting in an even distribution of sound through the room and
improved communication due to reduction of the effects of reverberation. SFAS is
ideal for mild hearing loss and particularly for fluctuating and/or conductive hearing
loss.
An SFAS can usually improve the S/N ratio by around 8 dB. This may provide
acceptable results in many classrooms for some children with hearing loss. SFAS is
not a replacement for an ALS. The S/N of 15 dB provided by an ALS is required for
people with hearing impairment.
4.2 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs)

The three major types of ALS that are in current use are as follows:
(a) Audio frequency induction loop systems (AFILSs), including receivers.
(b) Modulated radio systems (including digital transmission radio systems),
including receivers.
(c) Infra-red (IR) systems, including receivers.
The following receivers shall be required:
(i) For AFILS—loop receivers with audio output.
(ii) For modulated radio systems—matched radio receivers with audio output and
radio receivers with neck loops.
(iii) For infra-red—infra-red receivers with audio output and infra-red receivers
with neck loops.
Audio output may be in the form of headphones, stetoclips, earbuds, earpieces or
similar equipment.

21 AS 1428.5—2010
The audio output shall provide direct acoustic sound to the ears. When deciding
which of these items to provide (i.e., headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces), it
shall be ensured that all Occupational Health and Safety requirements are adhered
to with regard to cleanliness and infection control (see Note 1).
A magnetic output to couple to the hearing aid telecoil mode shall be provided by
using a neck loop or binaural induction plates. (see Notes 2 and 3)
If direct input is chosen, then shoes for all brands and models of hearings shall be
provided. Additional shoes will be required on a regular basis as new model hearing
aids and shoes become available.
NOTES:
1 Stetoclips are the preferred option to provide direct acoustic sound to the ears, as
they are quickly and easily sterilized and sit under the chin (rather than on the head).
2 Neck loops are the preferred option due to better reliability, lower visibility, easier
handling and operation.
3 An electrical output can be effective for hearing aids that have direct audio input;
however, due to the need to have different ‘shoes’ for every brand and model of
hearing aid, this is generally not considered a viable option.
4.3 ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS) SPECIFICATIONS

4.3.1 General
The requirements of this Clause apply to all types of ALS, unless otherwise
specified.
4.3.2 Frequency response
The frequency response of the ALS shall be within the range of ±3 dB with
reference to 1 kHz, from 100 Hz to 5 kHz.
For AFILS, the frequency response shall be measured at and comply with the
weakest point inside the loop cable.
NOTES:
1 Extending the upper limit of the frequency response above 5 kHz will not further
enhance intelligibility relative to a system with an upper limit of 5 kHz, but may
improve sound quality for hearing-impaired people with mild hearing loss.
2 The personal hearing-aid is designed to do all the necessary frequency correction for
each individual’s hearing loss.
4.3.3 Distortion
The distortion specifications of all input sources shall not exceed 2%.
Distortion of the ALS from electrical input to electrical output shall not exceed 3%.
Distortion shall be measured with a pure tone at frequencies of 500 Hz, 1 kHz and
2 kHz.
4.3.4 Compressor/AGC or equivalent
To compensate for fluctuating signal input levels, a system shall be employed that
achieves no more than 3 dB variation of output signal level for a minimum of 30 dB
variation of input signal level. The input level for normal speech shall be set at the
activation point (or knee).
A fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent shall have an attack time of less than
12 mS and a release time of less than 60 mS.

AS 1428.5—2010 22
4.3.5 Power source

The ALS shall be activated when any sound source to the ALS is operational. The
ALS shall not be switched off when the sound source is operational.
NOTE: This is to ensure that the ALS is powered and operational whenever required, that
is when the sound source such as microphone, television, PA, emergency warning
information system (EWIS), music, etc., is being used.
4.3.6 Signal to noise ratio (S/N)
Where an ALS is installed, the minimum signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) at the output of
the ALS shall be greater than or equal to 15 dB, where the A-weighted value of the
noise is compared with the long-time linear speech level.
The signal to noise ratio (S/N) shall be measured as follows:
(a) For modulated radio, IR and loop receivers—
(i) at the earpiece of the acoustic receiver; and
(ii) at the ear position for the telecoil measurements.
(b) For AFILS, the magnetic field strength shall be measured—
(i) in the vertical plane;
(ii) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions; and
(iii) for non-fixed seating positions, the stronger of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above
finished floor level.
This signal to noise ratio (S/N) shall include all noise, including sound source noise,
internally generated noise, environmental background noise and environmental
electromagnetic noise.
NOTES:
1 Sound source noise is noise generated within the electronic equipment providing the
signal to the ALS (e.g., PA system, microphone).
2 Internal noise is noise generated in the ALS.
3 Environmental background noise is acoustic noise generated by unwanted noise
sources, (e.g., air conditioning, traffic, etc).
4 Environmental electromagnetic noise is described in Clause 4.11.
4.3.7 Spillover
Spillover is the presence of ALS signal outside of the designated coverage of the
ALS.
AFILS spillover can occur up to 10 m beyond the perimeter of the loop cable, while
modulated radio system spillover can occur up to many kilometres from the radio
transmitter.
Infra-red spillover is limited to line of sight and reflections from the infra-red
transmitter, including door and window openings.
Where privacy is critical, infra-red is the best option due to the line of sight
limitation.
Privacy from the casual passers-by can also be improved with AFILS by utilizing
additional loops and drivers. This requires specialized expertise. Shielding between
floors is more difficult beyond the inherent shielding of the floor.

23 AS 1428.5—2010
Privacy cannot be effectively controlled when using radio transmitters. Shielding the
room to prevent the radio signal from radiating beyond the room is theoretically
possible, however impractical to implement.
NOTE: This is to ensure that the ALS is powered and operational whenever required, that
is when the sound source such as microphone, television, PA, EWIS, music, etc., is
being used.
4.4 AUDIO FREQUENCY INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM (AFILS)

4.4.1 General
The AFILS is an unmodulated wireless transmission system.
The most basic AFILS consists of a microphone, an amplifier and, in the place of a
loudspeaker, a coil of wire placed around the room. Sound waves from the
speaker’s voice going into the microphone are converted into an electric current,
amplified, and then sent through the coil, which sets up a magnetic field in the
room.
The field is picked up by a miniature inductor coil inside the hearing aid (when the
hearing aid T-switch is on), amplified, and converted back into sound. Hearing aid
users sitting within the loop system can pick up the speaker’s voice or other
auditory stimulus with a minimum of distortion and no background noise simply by
turning on the T-switch on their hearing aid.
The AFILS shall be fully adaptable to speech, public address, EWIS, television,
music, etc.
An AFILS shall include amplifier(s) and individual loop receivers fitted with
headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces.
Due to the majority of hearing aids in Australia being fitted with a T-switch, only a
minority of users of an AFILS will require loop receivers.
All parts of the system, including transmitter(s), receivers, accessories and
batteries, including all other parts required for the system to operate, shall be
provided by the venue.
The AFILS shall comply with Section 4 of this Standard and shall require the fully
installed AFILS to be tested in situ, including amplifier, loop cable, and any other
equipment (e.g., signal processor, compressor/AGC or equivalent, equalizer) that is
necessary to enable the AFILS to meet the specification.
All equipment that is used to meet the specification shall be considered part of the
AFILS, excluding external measuring equipment. For example, if an equalizer is
added to achieve compliance, the equalizer is then considered part of the AFILS
and remains in situ as part of the AFILS.
4.4.2 AFILS specification
4.4.2.1 General
An AFILS shall be compliant with this Standard when fully installed, tested and
documented, and shall meet the relevant requirements of Section 4, Section 5, and
Appendix A.
Individual components, such as cable, amplifier or other parts, shall not be stated
as, or deemed to be, compliant with this Standard.

AS 1428.5—2010 24
4.4.2.2 Listening area requirements

With an AFILS, the ‘listening area’ shall be defined as all points inside, outside,
over, or under the loop that meet the AFILS specifications at the heights specified
above the finished floor level.
Where multiple loop-cabled areas are used to form a listening area then, while
testing for compliance, all individual loop-cabled areas shall be powered and
operational simultaneously, and shall be tested for compliance with Clause 4.4.2.1
in each loop-cabled area and in the total listening area.
The term ‘loop-cabled area’ refers to each individual area surrounded on all sides
by a cable. For example if a cable is run to cover two areas, then each individual
area will require testing to meet the specifications, while all loops are fully
operational.
The same applies if a number of individually powered loop-cabled areas are used to
form a listening area. This can best be achieved by setting up and testing each
loop-cabled area separately, and then retesting the listening area as a whole, due
to the effects each loop-cabled area will have on its neighbouring area.
In the event that not all of the area within the loop-cabled area meets the AFILS
specification, testing shall be done to identify which parts meet the requirement of
this Standard and, therefore, defined as ‘listening area’. This shall be documented
and shown appropriately on the required signage.
In larger loop-cabled areas, the listening area is normally strongest just inside the
loop-cabled area (when it is installed under the floor or in the ceiling) and reduces
to its weakest level towards the centre. In addition, the loop is null both over and
under the loop cable, due to the orientation of the magnetic field strength relative to
the hearing aid wearer(s).
In smaller areas, the listening area may be strongest in the centre, growing weaker
towards the edges, with the null occurring outside the loop-cabled area.
Areas that do not normally meet the ‘listening area’ requirements are where the
loop signal is weak (normally outside the loop-cabled area), and where the
orientation is incorrect (normally 0.5 m either side and over the top of the loop-
cabled area when installed in the floor, or 1 m either side and under the loop-cabled
area when installed in the ceiling). In the event that a loop system is underpowered,
or there is excessive ferrous content, or the loop is too large, then the centre area
of the loop-cabled area will normally be weak or negligible.
Areas outside the loop-cabled area require extra care to ensure that the directional
nature of the loop does not limit the user. In the case of a lecture theatre, where all
seats face the front, this is not such an issue; however, at a conference table, if the
cable were to be run under the table so that the user is sitting outside the loop,
every time the user looks from one direction to another the volume in the user’s
hearing aid(s) will vary significantly, and the AFILS will fail in its practical use, and
fail to meet the requirement for angle of magnetic field strength measurement of
Clause 4.4.2.6(c).
4.4.2.3 Minimum magnetic field strength requirement
The requirements of this Clause pertain to the magnetic field strength level at the
weakest point inside the loop-cabled area. The only allowable reason for exceeding
the specified levels is when background magnetic noise requirement cannot be met.

25 AS 1428.5—2010
The following requirements enable the AFILS to handle the peak level of the speech
signals when processed by different types of compressor/AGC or equivalent
systems:
(a) The magnetic field strength level of an AFILS fitted with a fast-acting
compressor/AGC or equivalent shall be—
(i) −14 ±3 dB re 1 A/m (see Notes 1 and 2), for all construction methods
other than those using steel-reinforced concrete or steel-framed
construction;
(ii) −14 +3, −9 dB re 1 A/m (see Note 3), for steel-reinforced concrete
construction, and/or steel-framed construction (see Note 4); or
(iii) increased where background magnetic noise field strength level prevents
signal to noise requirements being met, provided the maximum magnetic
field strength level in Clause 4.4.2.4 is not exceeded.
(b) The magnetic field strength level for all AFILS that is not fitted with a fast-
acting compressor/AGC or equivalent shall be—
(i) −8 ±3 dB re 1 A/m (see Notes 5 and 6), for all construction methods
other than those using steel-reinforced concrete or steel-framed
construction;
(ii) −8 +3, −9 dB re 1 A/m (see Note 3), for steel-reinforced concrete
construction, and/or steel-framed construction (see Note 7); or
(iii) increased where background magnetic noise field strength level prevents
signal to noise requirements being met, provided the maximum magnetic
field strength level in Clause 4.4.2.4 is not exceeded.
NOTES:
1 ‘−14 dB re 1 A/m’ is equivalent to 200 mA/m.
2 ‘−14 dB re 1 A/m’ is based on reproducing the peak levels of speech using a fast-
acting compressor/AGC or equivalent where the accepted sensitivity of telecoil output
produces the same acoustic output level in the hearing aid as produced from normal
conversation at 70 dB SPL.
3 The tolerance of ‘−9 dB re 1 A/m’ has been included to cover buildings containing
significant amounts of steel (i.e., steel-reinforcing mesh in concrete, steel-framed
construction, or construction over large steel support beams) where the magnetic
field from the loop can be significantly distorted and reduced in level from a loop in
free space.
4 For Item (a)(ii), it is recommended that all areas meet the requirements of Item (a)(i).
5 ‘−8 dB re 1 A/m’ is equivalent to 400 mA/m.
6 ‘−8 dB re 1 A/m’ is based on reproducing the peak levels of speech when not using a
fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent where the accepted sensitivity of telecoil
output produces the same acoustic output level in the hearing aid as produced from
normal conversation at 70 dB SPL.
7 For Item (b)(ii), it is recommended that all areas meet the requirements of Item (b)(i).
The above shall apply when measured—
(A) using a 1 kHz sine wave;
(B) in the vertical plane;
(C) at the weakest point inside the loop-cabled area;
(D) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(E) for non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished
floor level;

AS 1428.5—2010 26
(F) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time;

(G) for a fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent, with an input signal level that
is 12 dB beyond the knee of the compressor/AGC or equivalent; and
(H) for other than fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent (the compressor/AGC
or equivalent shall be deactivated) with an input signal level that is 12 dB
beyond the knee of the compressor/AGC or equivalent.
4.4.2.4 Maximum magnetic field strength
The maximum magnetic field strength level shall be less than be +5 dB re
1 A/m (see Note); when measured—
(a) using a 1 kHz sine wave;
(b) in the vertical plane;
(c) at the strongest point inside the loop-cabled area;
(d) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(e) for non-fixed seating positions, the stronger of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished
floor level; and
(f) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
NOTES:
The maximum magnetic field strength level has been determined—
1 to ensure that the hearing aid is able to reproduce the signal without causing
distortion and without exceeding the volume control range of the hearing aid; and
2 to allow for the AFILS signal to be boosted in areas where background magnetic
noise will not allow a 15 dB difference between the average magnetic field strength of
the speech signal and the maximum A-weighted magnetic field strength of the
background magnetic noise.
4.4.2.5 Background magnetic noise level
The maximum background magnetic noise field strength level shall be −44 dBA
re 1 A/m and at any point inside the listening area.
In buildings where the background magnetic noise strength level cannot be met, the
strength of the loop magnetic field may be increased up to the maximum magnetic
field strength level to provide a speech signal that is sufficiently above the
background magnetic noise level, to ensure good communication.
Where the background magnetic noise field strength level is measured using
A-weighting, the maximum level shall be measured as follows:
(a) in the vertical plane;
(b) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(c) the stronger of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished floor level for non-fixed seating
positions; and
(d) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
The maximum magnetic field strength level of the A-weighted background noise
shall be—
(i) at least 21 dB (see Note 1) below the measured magnetic field strength level
for fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent in accordance with
Clause 4.4.2.3; or

27 AS 1428.5—2010
(ii) at least 27 dB (see Note 2) below the measured magnetic field strength level
for other than fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent in accordance with
Clause 4.4.2.3; and
(iii) measured at any point inside the listening area.
NOTES:
1 The 21 dB allows for 6 dB variation between maximum and average speech for fast
acting compressor/AGC or equivalent systems, plus 15 dB difference between
average speech signal and maximum A-weighted noise when measured using a true
r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
2 The 27 dB allows for 12 dB variation between maximum and average speech for other
than fast acting compressor/AGC or equivalent systems, plus 15 dB difference
between average speech signal and maximum A-weighted noise when measured
using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
4.4.2.6 Angle of magnetic field strength measurement
The aim of the measurement of the magnetic field strength is to ensure correct
stable field orientation in areas with raised stages, raked seating, or round table
conference rooms, as well as all other areas.
The angle for the measurement of the magnetic field is in a vertical plane through
the line of sight and perpendicular to the line of sight plus tolerances specified in
Items (a) and (b) below.
All parts of a listening area shall maintain magnetic field strength specifications over
the following ranges, when measured at the user’s position, and the line of sight is
from the user to the viewing area:
(a) ±15° above/below the line of sight to the viewing area.
(b) ±15° to either side the line of sight to the viewing area.
(c) The user position shall be for—
(i) fixed seating positions, 1.2 m above the finished floor level; or
(ii) non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of the magnetic field strength at
1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished floor level.
(d) The viewing area shall be—
(i) for a round table conference style room, all seating around the table;
(ii) for a cinema or the like, the extremities of the screen;
(iii) for a lecture theatre or the like, the extremities of the lecturing area—
(A) 1.7 m above finished floor level of the lecturing area; and
(B) the sides of the lecturing area.
(iv) for a theatre or the like—
(A) 1.7 m above finished floor level of the stage/performance area; and
(B) the sides of the stage/performance area.
(v) for all other areas, the extremities of the front of the area.
4.4.2.7 Functional testing
With the normal sound source permanently connected to the AFILS, measurements
of speech peaks shall—
(a) not fall below the requirements of Clause 4.4.2.3; and
(b) not exceed the requirements of Clause 4.4.2.4.

AS 1428.5—2010 28
The normal sound source shall be—

(i) by using a microphone in the fashion and at the levels at which the
microphone in the given situation will be used in real life; or
(ii) where a microphone is not used, using a live signal source (that is, in a
cinema a movie will be used).
The above shall apply when measured—
(A) with the input signal level set to the knee of the compressor/AGC or
equivalent;
(B) in the vertical plane;
(C) at the weakest point inside the listening area;
(D) for fixed seating positions, 1.2 m above the finished floor level;
(E) for non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished
floor level;
(F) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time; and
(G) using peak hold.
Listening tests shall be performed using a loop receiver to test for clear
reproduction of sound and to verify sound quality and listening pleasure.
4.4.2.8 Magnetic field strength references
Table 4.1 provides equivalent magnetic field strengths referenced to various zero
levels.

29 AS 1428.5—2010
TABLE 4.1
MAGNETIC FIELD STRENGTH LEVELS
Some
AS 1428.5 IEC 60118-4
Application instrumentation
AS 60118.4 (Ed.2.0 2006)
for AS 60118.4 Comments
Magnetic field Field strength Field strength Field strength
strength dB re 1 A/m dB re 400 mA/m dB re 100 mA/m
Typical maximum
1.78 A/m +5 +13 +25 level for hearing
aids
Reference level for
1 A/m 0 +8 +20
1 A/m
Reference level for
400 mA/m
400 mA/m −8 0 +12 Peak speech level
for other than fast-
acting AGC
Peak speech level
200 mA/m −14 −6 +6
for fast-acting AGC
Reference level for
100 mA/m
100 mA/m −20 −12 0
Long-term speech
level
Maximum level for
12.6 mA/m −38 −30 −18 A-weighted noise
(See Note 3)
Maximum level for
6.3 mA/m −44 −36 −24 A-weighted noise
(See Note 4)
NOTES:
1 Values given in the Table are measured using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
2 Flat weighting is used on all measurements, except for the A-weighted measurement of noise.
3 Maximum level for A weighted noise for all construction methods other than those using steel-
reinforced concrete or steel-framed construction, when the minimum measured magnetic field
strength is used in Clause 4.4.2.3(a)(i) and 4.4.2.3(b)(i).
4 Maximum level for A weighted noise for all construction methods using steel-reinforced
concrete or steel-framed construction, when the minimum measured magnetic field strength is
specified in Clauses 4.4.2.3(a)(ii) and 4.4.2.3(b)(ii) is used.
4.4.3 Loop receiver specifications

The following apply:
(a) The loop receiver shall be compatible with the AFILS to achieve clear
communication.
(b) The loop receiver shall have a volume control that is either continuously
variable, or can be adjusted in steps of no more than 2 dB increments.
(c) The loop receiver shall have a volume range of 30 dB.
(d) The loop receiver shall be provided with headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpieces.

AS 1428.5—2010 30
(e) Battery life:

(i) When using non-rechargeable batteries, the batteries shall be new and
shall last the duration of the expected use, plus a minimum of 20%.
(ii) When using rechargeable batteries, the batteries shall be fully charged
and, when new, they shall last 150% of the duration of the expected use,
to allow for degradation of batteries.
(f) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be stereo or binaural. They
shall not be monaural.
(g) The maximum acoustic output of the combined receiver and
headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be between 110 dB SPL and
125 dB SPL.
(h) Output connectors for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and neck
loops (or induction plates) shall be 3.5 mm phono socket.
(i) Earpads and/or earpieces, and any other item used on or in the ear, shall be
cleaned between uses. The cleaning process shall meet Occupational Health
and Safety requirements.
NOTE: Cleaning is not the responsibility of the user.
4.5 MODULATED RADIO SYSTEMS

4.5.1 General
Different radio systems can operate over a wide range of carrier frequencies from
100 kHz to 1 GHz. Performance features are influenced by the carrier frequency,
the carrier power, and the manner in which the carrier is modulated by the audio
signal. The most commonly used modulation method is frequency modulation (FM).
Different channels avoid mutual interference when a number of transmitters are
used in one location. Radio receivers used by the hearing-impaired require a louder
output than normal, and need attachments for use both with the T-switch on the
hearing aid (e.g., neck loop) and acoustically (e.g., headphones/stetoclips/
earbuds/earpieces).
Broadcast band FM transmission (88–108 Hz) may be used to broadcast special
occasions, such as open-air sporting and religious events; however, it should be
noted that the FM radio receiver will broadcast the speech in advance of sound
from speakers around the venue.
Specialized systems using advanced or other communication technologies, such as
digital communication systems, may be substituted if personal receivers are
available and the accessories and performance specified is achieved.
All parts of the system, including transmitter(s), receivers, accessories (i.e., neck
loops) and batteries, including all other parts required for the system to operate,
shall be provided by the venue.
Modulated radio systems are—
(a) most commonly referred to as FM systems; and
(b) consist of receivers and transmitters.
Modulated radio systems shall comply with this Standard when fully installed,
tested, documented and shall meet all relevant requirements of Section 4, Section 5
and Appendix B.

31 AS 1428.5—2010
4.5.2 Receivers
There are two categories of modulated radio receivers that can be part of an ALS
as follows:
(a) Individual modulated radio receivers fitted with headphones/stetoclips/
earbuds/earpieces and individual modulated radio receivers fitted with neck
loops, both of which are provided by the venue. This is the most common use
of modulated radio receivers.
(b) Personal hearing aid with receiver attachment or internal receiver circuitry.
This system is normally used as an individual radio system and is not currently
serviced by public venues.
4.5.3 Transmitters
There are two categories of modulated radio transmitters that can be part of an ASL
as follows:
(a) A transmitter connected to the sound source (normal modulated radio
system). This is the most common use of modulated radio transmitters in
public venues.
(b) A personal transmitter worn on the speaker’s body with lapel microphone or
head-worn microphone, or a handheld transmitter microphone (these are
commonly referred to as part of a personal FM system).
4.5.4 Modulated radio system specifications
(a) The transmitter and receiver of a modulated radio system shall be capable of
achieving clear communication.
(b) The system shall provide sufficient coverage of the intended area of operation,
regardless of where the receiver is positioned on the body of the user.
(c) If broadcast band FM transmission is used, and receivers are not provided by
the venue—
(i) the system shall be compatible with standard broadcast band FM
receivers; and
(ii) the frequency of the transmission shall be specified on signage and
documentation, and readily accessible by the public.
(d) The modulated radio system shall not drift in frequency.
(e) Each receiver shall be marked with the frequency or the channel(s) on which it
operates, with sufficient detail for consumers to identify that the unit is the
correct unit for the intended area of operation.
(f) The receiver shall have a volume control that is either continuously variable,
or can be adjusted in steps of no more than 2 dB increments.
(g) The receiver shall have a volume range of 30 dB.
(h) The user shall have a choice of either—
(i) a neck loop; or
(ii) headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces.
NOTE: It is the venue’s responsibility to provide both choices of Items (i) and (ii) at all
times.
(i) The peak level of speech emitted by the neck loop or induction plates shall be
equal to, or greater than, −11 dB re 1 A/m when measured at the ear.
AS 1428.5—2010 32
(j) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be stereo or binaural. They

(k) The maximum acoustic output of the combined receiver and
125 dB SPL.
NOTE: Output connectors for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and neck
loops (or induction plates) should be 3.5 mm phono sockets.
(l) Earpads and/or earpieces, and any other item used on or in the ear, shall be
cleaned between uses.
(m) The cleaning process shall meet Occupational Health and Safety
requirements.
(n) Battery life:
shall last the duration of the expected use plus a minimum 20%.
(ii) When using rechargeable batteries, the batteries shall be fully charged
and, when new, shall last 150% of the duration of the expected use, to
allow for degradation of batteries.
4.6 INFRA-RED (IR) SYSTEM

4.6.1 General
In this system, a modulated light beam in the infra-red spectrum is transmitted to
special receivers worn by the listeners. The line of sight from transmitter to
receivers shall be unobstructed by fixed or moving objects or people. The system
may become degraded or inoperative when the receivers are exposed to direct
sunlight or high levels of reflected sunlight. Whether the receiver is a
headphone/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces or neck loop coupled to hearing aids, the
system shall comply with the specifications.
Infra-red transmitters and receivers shall also be compatible with each other.
NOTE: If they are not compatible they may not function with other infra-red systems.
Infra-red devices have the advantage that signals do not leak outside a room, and
so provide a more secure communication system than is possible with modulated
radio systems or induction loop systems. Some leakage may occur through
windows and open doors.
An infra-red system includes transmitter(s) and individual infra-red receivers fitted
with headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and individual infra-red receivers
fitted with neck loops.
All parts of the system, including transmitter(s), receivers, accessories (i.e., neck
loops) and batteries, and all other parts required for the system to operate, shall be
provided by the venue.
An infra-red system shall comply with this Standard when fully installed, tested,
documented, and shall meet the requirements of Section 4, Section 5 and
Appendix C.
4.6.2 Infra-red system specification
(a) The transmitter and receiver of an infra-red system shall be compatible, to
achieve clear communication. This may involve multiple transmitters.

33 AS 1428.5—2010
(b) The system shall provide sufficient coverage of the intended area of operation.
It shall include adequate capability to allow for normal movement of the head
and upper body when being worn, without loss or degradation of signal.
(c) The receiver shall have a volume control that is either continuously variable,
or can be adjusted in steps of no more than 2 dB increments.
(d) The receiver shall have a volume range of 30 dB.
(e) The user shall have a choice of either—
(i) a neck loop; or
(ii) headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces.
NOTE: It is the venue’s responsibility to provide both choices of Items (i)
and (ii) at all times.
(f) The peak level of speech emitted by the neck loop or induction plates shall be
equal to or greater than −11 dB re 1 A/m when measured at the ear.
(g) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be stereo or binaural. They
(h) The maximum acoustic output of the combined receiver and
125 dB SPL.
(i) Earpads and/or earpieces, and any other item used on or in the ear, shall be
cleaned between uses. The cleaning process shall meet Occupational Health
and Safety requirements.
NOTE: Cleaning is not the responsibility of the user.
(j) Battery life:
shall last the duration of the expected use, plus a minimum 20%.
(ii) When using rechargeable batteries, the batteries shall be fully charged,
and when new shall last 150% of the duration of the expected use, to
allow for degradation of batteries.
4.7 SOUND FIELD AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM (SFAS)

4.7.1 General
A sound field amplification system (SFAS) operates on the principle of improving
speech intelligibility through the use of a shorter, direct sound path from speaker to
ear, resulting in an even distribution of sound throughout the room and
improvement in communication by reducing the effects of reverberation.
It enables every listener in the room to hear all speech components of the person
speaking (or sound source) with minimal reverberation, no matter where the listener
is located relative to the person speaking (or sound source).

AS 1428.5—2010 34
4.7.2 Installation
Where an SFAS is installed, it shall consist of—
(a) an audio amplifier;
(b) a lapel wireless microphone system, or head-worn microphone, for the primary
user;
(c) one speaker per 10 m 2 to 20 m 2;
(d) no less than four speakers; and
(e) each speaker mounted between 2 m and 3 m above finished floor level.
No position in the room shall be more than 7 m from a speaker (see Note 1).
The SFAS shall be designed to overcome the limitations caused by meeting room
acoustics, where reverberation is commonly the limiting factor for good speech
intelligibility. SFAS is not a replacement for ALS (see Notes 2,3, 4 and 5).
NOTES:
1 It is highly recommended that an SFAS also have a hand-held wireless microphone
system. This is to enable children or another teacher to use the SFAS (e.g., asking
questions, team teaching).
2 People with moderate or worse hearing loss will require ALS regardless of whether an
SFAS is installed or not.
3 The SFAS was originally designed for people with mild hearing loss who do not wear
hearing aids, specifically children with otitis media, otherwise known as ‘glue ear’.
4 Research has shown that these systems benefit people with mild hearing loss, with
and without hearing aids, as well as those with fluctuating and/or conductive hearing
loss, and people with normal hearing.
5 This system is quite often used, but not limited to, classrooms and educational
institutions.
4.8 SIGNAL SOURCE

4.8.1 Fixed input
A permanently installed ALS shall have a permanently connected signal source.
4.8.2 Microphones
There are several categories of microphones, and each category has specific
limitations.
When used with an ALS, the following microphones shall only be used within the
distance specified from the mouth of the person speaking:
(a) Hand-held ........................................................................ less than 100 mm.
(b) Gooseneck directional .................................................... 300 mm to 600 mm.
(c) Boundary microphone ..................................................... 150 mm to 500 mm.
The specified limits are essential to ensure adequate speech intelligibility by
minimizing the effects of room reverberation.
Centre table or conference microphones shall not be used as an input to an ALS as
they defeat the purpose of ALS due to room reverberation and therefore severely
degrade speech intelligibility.
To minimize background noise, noise-suppressing directional microphones (e.g.,
cardioid or hyper cardioid directional pattern) shall be utilized, except in the case of
body-worn microphones.

35 AS 1428.5—2010
Where more than three multiple microphones are required and microphones cannot
be switched off or muted manually, an automatic mixer shall be utilized.
All testing using microphones shall be performed using the microphone in the
fashion and at the levels at which the microphone in the given situation will be used
in real life.
4.9 TESTING
The ALS shall be tested—
(a) at least monthly, or more often if specified by the manufacturer;
(b) for functional testing to ensure that the ALS is operational; and
(c) using a live signal source (i.e., a cinema will use a movie, and an auditorium
with PA will use someone talking into the microphone as it is normally used).
4.10 TRAINING
4.10.1 General
Training shall be provided to designated people who are responsible for the
functional operation of the ALS.
Management shall ensure that at least one of the designated people is present at all
times when the ALS is required.
4.10.2 Audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS) training
Training shall be provided for all of the following:
(a) Exact area of coverage of loop system, including coverage, dead spots and
spillover.
(b) How the AFILS is used with the telecoil in hearing aids and cochlear implants.
(c) Coverage limitation over/under loop cable.
(d) How to use the loop receiver, including position of loop receiver for
operational use, and consequences of using the loop receiver in other
positions.
(e) Which types of earpieces are included with the loop receiver and how to
attach them (i.e., headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces or the like).
(f) Method for cleaning headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces (or the like) of
the loop receiver, to the standard specified by Occupational Health and Safety
requirements.
(g) Method for testing that the loop receiver is operational.
(h) Method for functional testing that the AFILS is operational, using a live signal
source (i.e., a cinema will use a movie, and an auditorium with PA will use
someone talking into the microphone as it is normally used) to test the system.
(i) Location of AFILS amplifier(s).
(j) Expected display on AFILS amplifier(s) when operating correctly.
(k) Battery use for loop receiver, including—
(i) how to replace batteries, except where rechargeable batteries are not
designed to be removed; and
(ii) battery life—
(A) for rechargeable batteries—
AS 1428.5—2010 36
(1) battery duration under expected use, (i.e., the length of

continuous operational use between recharges);
(2) life of battery under expected use, (i.e., expected life of
batteries until batteries need replacement);
(3) charging procedure;
(4) charging time; and
(B) for non rechargeable batteries—
(1) battery duration under expected use; and
(2) type of battery; and
(iii) method for checking the battery condition.
(l) How often the functional testing needs to be performed. (Functional testing
shall be at least monthly.)
(m) Documented training manual including all of the above.
4.10.3 Modulated radio system training
(a) Exact area of coverage of modulated radio system, including coverage, dead
spots and spillover.
(b) How the modulated radio system is used with the telecoil in hearing aids and
cochlear implants.
(c) How to use the receiver.
(d) Which types of earpieces are included with the receiver (i.e.,
headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and how to attach them).
(e) Which types of telecoil-compatible accessories are included with the receiver,
and how to attach them (i.e., neck loops, induction plates or the like).
(f) Method for cleaning headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces, to the standard
specified by Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
(g) Method for testing that the receiver is operational.
(h) Method of functional testing that the modulated radio system is operational,
using a live signal source (i.e., a cinema will use a movie, and an auditorium
with PA will use someone talking into the microphone as it is normally used) to
test the system.
(i) Location of modulated radio system transmitter(s).
(j) Expected display on transmitter(s) when operating correctly.
(k) Battery use for receiver, including—
(i) method of replacing batteries, except where rechargeable batteries are
not designed to be removed;
(1) battery duration under expected use (i.e., the length of
(2) life of battery under expected use (i.e., expected life of

37 AS 1428.5—2010
(3) charging procedure; and

(B) for non-rechargeable batteries—
(l) If broadcast band, frequency to be specified.
(m) If not broadcast band, sufficient frequency/channel number information to be
specified to enable owner to source compatible units if additional units are
required at a later time.
(n) Frequency of functional testing. (Minimum testing frequency shall be at least
monthly.)
A documented training manual shall be provided, which shall include all of the
above.
4.10.4 Infra-red system training
(a) Exact area of coverage of infra-red system, including coverage, dead spots,
and spillover.
(b) The infra-red system with the telecoil in hearing aids and cochlear implants.
(c) Method of using the receiver, including position of receiver for operational use,
and consequences of using the receiver in other positions.
(d) Which types of earpieces are included with the receiver and how to attach
them (i.e., headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and the like).
(e) Which types of telecoil-compatible accessories are included with the receiver,
and how to attach them (i.e., neck loops, induction plates or the like).
(f) Method for cleaning headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces, to the standard
specified by Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
(g) Method for testing that the receiver is operational.
(h) Method for functional testing that the infra-red system is operational, using a
live signal source (i.e., a cinema will use a movie, and an auditorium with PA
will use someone talking into the microphone as it is normally used) to test the
system.
(i) Location of infra-red system transmitter(s).
(j) Expected display on transmitter(s) when operating correctly.

AS 1428.5—2010 38
(k) Battery use for receiver, including—

(i) how to replace batteries, except where rechargeable batteries are not
designed to be removed; and
(1) battery duration under expected use (i.e., the length of
(2) life of battery under expected use (i.e., expected life of
(3) charging procedure; and
(B) for non-rechargeable batteries—
(l) If multichannel, channel to be specified.
(m) Sufficient brand/model information to be specified, to enable owner to source
compatible units if additional units are required at a later time.
(n) How often functional testing needs to be performed. (Functional testing shall
be carried out at least monthly.)
A documented training manual shall be provided, which shall include all of the
above.
4.11 ENVIRONMENTAL ELECTROMAGNETIC NOISE

4.11.1 General
Environmental electromagnetic noise can affect hearing aids in acoustic and telecoil
mode as well as ALS.
When the cumulative noise is great enough to reduce the signal-to-noise ratio to
15 dB or less, it can be uncomfortable for hearing-impaired persons and will render
listening more difficult. If unwanted noise is more severe, listening will become
impossible.
4.11.2 Sources of electromagnetic interference
4.11.2.1 Power grid
In the telecoil mode, hearing aids may pick up electromagnetic noise in the audio
bandwidth. One cause is where unintended electrical loops emitting magnetic fields
at 50 Hz, and harmonic multiples of 50 Hz, can arise when the active and neutral
leads in mains electricity systems follow different pathways. This often arises when
two-way switches are installed, but can also occur with conventional switches.
All electrical mains wiring shall be run with adjacent active and neutral wires.
Another cause is where unbalanced currents occur in mains cable(s) that are
located through, or adjacent to, an area where an ALS is used.
Where unbalanced currents occur, switching off the load (e.g., fluorescent lighting,
machinery, airconditioning, etc.) may assist in alleviating the interference.

39 AS 1428.5—2010
Localized interference may also occur around switchboards and some dimmer
switches and controllers.
Overcoming interference requires either rerouting mains cabling or shielding the
cabling with specialized materials. Conventional steel is not adequate.
4.11.2.2 Communication or radio devices
Electromagnetic interference at audio frequencies is a serious problem and there
may be a range of typical sources. The most common source is the GSM mobile
phone handset.
4.11.2.3 Digital technology
Some digital technologies may cause electromagnetic interference to
communication devices and ALSs.
4.12 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS

The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) is the regulator for
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) arrangements, electromagnetic radiation
(EMR) arrangements, radio communications regulatory arrangements and
telecommunications regulatory arrangements.
All hearing augmentation systems and devices shall comply with the regulatory
requirements of the ACMA or its equivalent.

AS 1428.5—2010 40
S E C T IO N 5 S I G N AG E
5.1 GENERAL
The International Deafness Symbol (see Figure 5.1) shall be displayed to designate
the existence of ALS in accordance with Figures 5.2(A), 5.2(B) or 5.2(C), as
appropriate, and in accordance with this Section.
At every location where receivers for ALS can be obtained, the International
Deafness Symbol (see Figure 5.1) shall be displayed to designate that receivers
can be collected at the location, for use with the ALS, as shown in Figure 5.3.
When only part of the area is covered (when the appropriate receiver or hearing aid
is used in the normal operating position), maps/floor plans shall be provided to
supplement the symbol, as specified below.
The following shall apply to the symbol:
(a) The colour of the symbol shall be white on a blue background.
(b) The blue shall be B21, Ultramarine as shown in AS/NZS 2700, or similar.
Any lettering on the sign shall be blue on a white background.
FIGURE 5.1 PROPORTIONAL LAYOUT FOR INTERNATIONAL

SYMBOL FOR DEAFNESS

41 AS 1428.5—2010
5.2 BUILDINGS
All symbols and supplementary text shall be in accordance with the sizes specified
in Clause 5.4.2.
The symbol and supplementary text shall be provided at the following locations:
(a) On all building directories to indicate rooms and spaces equipped with ALS.
(b) At every public entry to rooms and spaces equipped with ALS, indicating—
(i) the type of ALS provided;
(ii) where to obtain receivers; and
(iii) assistance in ALS use.
Where only part of a room or space is equipped with an ALS, the symbol shall
be supplemented by a map/floor plan and text indicating the area covered.
(c) In the front third of a room equipped with ALS, indicating—
Where only part of the room is equipped with an ALS, the symbol shall be
supplemented by a map/floor plan and text indicating the area covered.
(d) Throughout spaces equipped with ALS in larger open-plan buildings, such as
airport terminals, indicating—
The symbol shall be supplemented by a map/floor plan and text indicating the
area/s covered.
(e) At every counter fitted with an ALS, indicating—
(ii) where to obtain receivers, and
(f) At every location where receivers for ALS receivers can be obtained,
indicating—
(i) the type of ALS provided; and
(ii) areas covered by ALS.
(g) At every transport conveyance terminal with transport conveyance(s) fitted
with ALS, in addition to other signage required by this Section, indicating—
(i) the conveyance fitted with an ALS;
(ii) the type of ALS provided;
(iii) where to obtain receivers, and
(iv) assistance in ALS use.

AS 1428.5—2010 42
5.3 TRANSPORT CONVEYANCES

5.3.1 Buses
In buses equipped with ALS, the symbol shall be provided at the following locations:
(a) At the front of the conveyance such that a boarding passenger will be able to
clearly see the symbol as the conveyance approaches.
(b) At all passenger doors to areas of the conveyance equipped with ALS, outside
of the conveyance.
(c) At all passenger doors to areas of the conveyance equipped with ALS, inside
the entrance of the conveyance, indicating—
(ii) where to obtain assistance in ALS use; and
(iii) where to obtain receivers.
Where the ALS does not cover the total area within the equipped area of the
conveyance, the symbol shall be supplemented by a map/floor plan and text
indicating the area covered.
5.3.2 Trams and light rail
In trams and light rail equipped with ALS, the symbol shall be provided at the
following locations:
of the conveyance.
the entrance of the conveyance indicating—
5.3.3 Trains
In trains equipped with ALS, the symbol shall be provided at the following locations:
of the conveyance.
the entrance of the conveyance indicating—

43 AS 1428.5—2010
5.3.4 Aircraft
In aircraft equipped with ALS, the symbol shall be provided at all passenger doors
to areas of the conveyance equipped with ALS. The symbol shall be prominently
displayed inside and shall be visible when entering the conveyance, indicating the
type of ALS provided.
5.4 OUTDOOR VENUES

5.4.1 Locations
In an outdoor environment, such as sporting venues, the symbol shall be provided
at the following locations:
(a) On all venue directories to indicate sectors equipped with ALS.
(b) At every public entry to sectors equipped with ALS, indicating—
(c) At every counter fitted with an ALS, indicating—
(d) At every location where receivers for ALS can be obtained, indicating—
(i) the type of ALS provided; and
(ii) areas covered by ALS.
The symbol shall be supplemented by a map/floor plan and text indicating the area
covered.

AS 1428.5—2010 44
∗ Insert appropriate description of space (e.g., room, conveyance, counter, etc.)

† If only part of the area is covered, insert wording and map/floor plans here
FIGURE 5.2(A) AFILS SIGNAGE

45 AS 1428.5—2010
∗ Insert appropriate description of space, (e.g., room, conveyance, counter, etc.)

† insert location where receivers and assistance are available.
If receivers and assistance are not at the same location, use the following wording:
To seek assistance (insert location).
To use this system, ask (insert location) for FM receiver and use hearing aid T-switch if you have one.
∗∗ If using public broadcast band, then insert the following here:
If using own FM receiver tune it to # MHz (where # is the frequency to tune the receiver to)
†† If only part of the area is covered, insert wording and map/floor plans here
FIGURE 5.2(B) MODULATED RADIO SIGNAGE

AS 1428.5—2010 46
∗ Insert appropriate description of space (e.g., room, conveyance, counter, etc.)

† If only part of the area is covered, insert wording and map/floor plans here
FIGURE 5.2(C) IR SIGNAGE

47 AS 1428.5—2010
∗ Insert appropriate description of type of system (e.g., audio frequency induction loop, infra-red, or frequency
modulation)
† List all areas in which these receivers may be used (e.g., cinemas 1 to 4, halls 5 and 6, etc.)
FIGURE 5.3 'COLLECT RECEIVER HERE' SIGNAGE

AS 1428.5—2010 48
5.4.2 Text, numerals and symbols on signs

5.4.2.1 General
(a) Signs shall—
(i) be in a san-serif font such as Helvetica Medium or Arial;
(ii) be sentence case (i.e., upper case for the first letter of the sentence and
proper nouns and lower case for all other letters);
(iii) have a minimum luminance contrast of 30% compared to the
background; and
(iv) be glare free when mounted.
(b) Numerals shall be Arabic numerals (e.g., 1, 2, 3).
5.4.2.2 Height of signs
The location of signs shall determine the size of the information to be provided, as
follows:
(a) Signs that are not overhead signs and that are to be read in a standing or
sitting position shall be mounted between 1200 mm to 1600 mm above the
finished surface of the floor or ground. Where there is insufficient space for
the information required to be displayed, the sign may extend down to
1000 mm above finished floor level (AFFL) or above finished ground level
(AFGL).
(i) Text, numerals and symbols shall be able to be read tactually.
(ii) Upper case characters shall have a height of not less than 15 mm high
and not more than 55 mm.
(b) Overhead signs shall be used where it is likely that there may be obstructions
(such as in a crowded situation) and shall be placed at a minimum height of
2000 mm above the finished surface of the floor or ground. Letter heights shall
be a minimum of 17.5 mm for each metre of viewing distance, in accordance
with Table 5.1.
Where a viewing distance is excessive, it is recommended to have repetitive signs
along the path of travel.
TABLE 5.1
MINIMUM HEIGHTS FOR LETTERS
AND NUMERALS
Viewing distance Letter/numeral heights
m mm
1 17.5
2 35
3 52.5
4 70
5 87.5
6 105
7 122.5
8 140
9 157.5
10 175

49 AS 1428.5—2010
5.4.2.3 Symbols
The minimum size of symbols shall be in accordance with Table 5.2.
TABLE 5.2
SYMBOL SIZES
Symbol size
Viewing distance mm
m
≤1600 mm AFL/AGL* ≥2000 mm AFL/AGL*
Less than 5 100 × 100 100 × 100
5 to <10 150 × 150 150 × 150
10 to <15 200 × 200 200 × 200
15 to <20 — 250 × 250
20 to <30 — 350 × 350
Greater than 30 — 500 × 500
* AFL/AGL – Above finished floor level or above finished ground level
NOTE: Text size may vary from that of any accompanying symbol.

AS 1428.5—2010 50
S E CT IO N 6 RE Q U I R EME N TS F O R WAR NI N G
A ND A L E RTIN G S YS TE MS
6.1 GENERAL
A person with deafness may be alone in any part of any building and where there is
an emergency warning system provided it shall be accessible to all people with
hearing loss by—
(a) visual or tactile information; and
(b) ALS where provided.
Every emergency warning system provided in a private office place (or the like),
generally not accessible to the public, shall be accessible to all people with hearing
loss.
Warning systems suitable for people who have sensory disabilities shall be
provided as part of—
(i) monitored fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems;
(ii) personal smoke alarm, fire detection or warning systems;
(iii) specifically designed self-contained alerting devices; and
(iv) personal response monitoring and communication systems where a user
requiring assistance is connected to a central monitoring facility.
The effectiveness of warning systems shall not be compromised by their location;
that is sound-proofing of rooms shall not interfere with warning system.
NOTES:
1 It is particularly important that the warning systems for people who have sensory
disabilities be extended to incorporate areas such as storerooms, toilets, showers
and the like.
2 While most common alarms might be expected to attract the attention of persons with
moderate disabilities, experience has shown that augmented systems are required for
persons with a more serious disability.
3 Hearing-impaired persons remove their hearing aids and cochlear implants when
sleeping, hence, there is effectively a much larger night time profoundly deaf
population requiring access regarding supplementary alarm devices, compared with
the day time population.
6.2 EMERGENCY WARNING SYSTEMS

6.2.1 Occupant warning
Where an occupant warning system is provided by means of sounders or tone
generator amplifiers with speakers in accordance with AS 1670.1 or a sound system
for emergency purposes in accordance with AS 1670.4 or other occupant warning
system in accordance with the approved design, which generates audible alert,
evacuation signals and/or verbal output, the system shall also provide the same
information through visible signals. The visible signal for evacuation shall flash
white (clear) unless specified otherwise, in accordance with the temporal pattern of
ISO 8201. The visual alarm devices for evacuation shall be labelled ‘EVACUATE’.
NOTE: For an alert signal, the ISO 8201 temporal pattern consists of four 1 s periods
with a flash on three consecutive periods followed by one missing flash.

51 AS 1428.5—2010
Where an alert signal is provided for other emergencies that do not require
immediate evacuation, the visual signal shall flash at another pattern distinctly
different from the evacuation program.
NOTE: A suitable flash rate may be 30–120 flashes per minute.
Visual warning devices shall comply with AS 1603.11.
In hotels, motels, guesthouses and similar establishments, management shall make
available on request a pulsing vibration alert for the purpose of waking people in the
event of an emergency. The vibration shall be pulsing not continuous.
NOTE: A pulsing vibration alert is a device that vibrates to alert a person when triggered
by a smoke detector. This may be a vibrating device placed under a pillow or a portable
pager that vibrates when activated.
Where an ALS is provided, the audible portion of emergency warning signals shall
also be transmitted through the ALS.
In some sound systems for emergency purposes (s.s.e.p.), a recorded evacuation
message is used to instruct occupants to evacuate. The s.s.e.p. may be utilized
also for the distribution of background music and general public address system.
If the s.s.e.p. is used for any function other than for s.s.e.p. (e.g., background
music, public address) then an ALS shall be provided.
6.2.2 Smoke alarms
In locations where s.s.e.p. is not required and where smoke alarms are used, the
s.s.e.p. shall comply with the following:
(a) The s.s.e.p. shall be of the photoelectric type complying with an equipment
Standard referenced in AS 1670.6.
(b) For a sleeping occupant, a pulsing vibrating device suitable for placement
under a pillow shall be provided.
(c) For areas intended for non-sleeping occupants, visual alarm devices shall be
provided.
NOTE: Guidance on selection location and installation of visual alarm devices is
given in HB 123.
Supplementary alarm devices shall be activated by the smoke alarms sensing
smoke.
6.2.3 Supplementary alarm devices
Supplementary alarm devices are used to alert people who have hearing
impairment of activation of the s.s.e.p.
Supplementary alarm devices shall comply with one of the following:
(a) They shall be permanently connected to the emergency warning system.
(b) The building shall be provided with standard electrical fittings connected to the
emergency warning system so that portable supplementary alarm devices can
be connected. The portable supplementary alarm devices shall be provided by
the building tenant or the like.
In all rooms where people with hearing loss may work or reside, location of the
supplementary alarm devices shall ensure that they will be effective when warning
of emergencies.
In hotels, motels, guesthouses and similar establishments, management shall make
available on request a pulsing vibration alarm clock for the purpose of waking
people in the event of an emergency.

AS 1428.5—2010 52
6.3 AUXILIARY ALERTING DEVICES

Auxiliary alerting devices are used to alert people who have hearing impairment to
non-emergency situations.
Typical auxiliary alerting devices include—
(a) door alerts;
(b) vibrating alarm clocks;
(c) telephone alerts;
(d) baby cry alarms; and
(e) proximity warning devices for blind persons with hearing loss.
Auxiliary alerting devices shall operate by a minimum of one of the following means:
(i) Visual signalling lights.
(ii) Vibration.
6.4 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS IN LIFT CARS

Communication systems in lift cars shall comply with AS 1735.12 and shall provide
the following:
(a) Instructions for use as visual information.
(b) A visual means to indicate that the automatic dialling mechanism has been
successfully activated.
(c) A visual means to indicate that the operator at the base station has received
and understood the call.
(d) A visual means to indicate that assistance has been dispatched.
NOTE: Additional visual information to indicate the expected delay before help might
reach the lift would greatly assist in preventing the anxiety that the lift car occupant might
experience.

53 AS 1428.5—2010
S E CT IO N 7 CO MMU N I C A TI O N S YS TE MS
7.1 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Any screen or scoreboard that is capable of displaying public announcements shall
be used to provide a visual display of all audible announcements.
7.2 AUDIO SIGNAGE

Various types of interactive audio signage are available, including infra-red,
manually operated and motion activated. Where audio signage is provided, the
information shall also be provided as text.
7.3 WAYFINDING
Where audio signage is used for wayfinding, the information shall be provided as
text.
7.4 SECURITY INTERCOM SYSTEMS

Where a security intercom entry system is installed in a building, it shall include
visual means at both ends of the intercom to indicate when the following functions
are activated:
(a) For a person with a hearing impairment, visiting a building—
(i) at the initiation of a call to the required recipient within the building, to
determine that the call had been successfully initiated;
(ii) when the person within the building had received the call, to indicate that
the call had been received;
(iii) a means by which the caller may identify themselves to the recipient;
and
(iv) a visual indication that a response had been made (that is the door latch
had been released and that entry was authorized).
(b) For a person with a hearing impairment, resident within a building—
(i) a visual means of notifying the person within the sole occupancy unit
that a call had been made on the security system and required
answering;
(ii) a means for letting the person who initiated the call know that the call
had been received;
(iii) a means for requesting the caller to identify themselves;
(iv) a visual means of receiving the caller’s identification;
(v) a means of making a suitable response to the call (e.g., releasing the
door latch); and
(vi) a means of informing the caller that a response had been made.

AS 1428.5—2010 54
7.5 REQUIREMENTS OF VISUAL COMMUNICATORS, INTERPRETERS AND

LIPREADERS
Adequate lighting shall be provided to illuminate the face and body of visual
communicators, interpreters and lip readers.
Sign language interpreters shall use unpatterned clothing in darker hues when
interpreting. This attire is particular necessary when on a stage or beside a public
podium.
NOTE: For stage and selected areas in public gathering spaces where signing deaf might
congregate (e.g., the foyer of a theatre), strong communication lighting will be needed.

55 AS 1428.5—2010
S E C T IO N 8 L I G HT I N G S P E C I F I C AT I O N S
8.1 GENERAL
Lighting of the face and body shall be required to enable lipreading and sign
language communication in the following settings:
(a) At places where information is exchanged (e.g., reception or sales counters,
ticket offices, in an auditorium or classroom and the like).
(b) In the position where a sign interpreter is to be located.
(c) In areas where spontaneous general conversation may occur (e.g., building
foyers, theatre lobbies, public spaces, outdoor public transport terminals and
similar venues).
Lighting systems shall be provided to facilitate communication in a safe and
comfortable visual environment. The following shall be required:
(i) Even lighting levels to avoid illuminance variations and shadows.
(ii) Minimization of glare and unwanted reflections.
8.2 ILLUMINATION
Illumination shall comply with the following:
(a) Signage shall be illuminated to a minimum illumination of 240 lx.
(b) Minimum illumination shall comply with AS/NZS 1680.1 and AS/NZS 3827.2.
(c) Minimum illumination of 160 lx shall be provided where no higher illumination
has been specified by AS/NZS 1680.1 and AS/NZS 1158.
8.3 DIRECTION AND CONTRAST

Adequate focused lighting, without excess shadow, shall be provided for lipreading
and sign language interpretation at places where information is exchanged (e.g.,
reception, sales counter, ticket office, auditorium, classroom and the like).
In order to assist lipreading, lighting systems shall—
(a) produce an even overall illumination of the speaker’s lips and face, without
shadows; and
(b) use directional lighting (not down-lights), where the angle of the lighting shall
be in the range of 15° to 45° from the horizontal to illuminate the speaker.
A lighting system to assist sign language interpretation shall—
(i) produce an even overall illumination of the face and hands of the sign
language interpreter with minimal shadow;
(ii) use directional lighting (not down-lights), where the angle of the lighting shall
be in the range of 15° to 45° from the horizontal to illuminate the sign
language interpreter; and
(iii) illuminate an area 1 m wide by 2 m high (from finished floor level), to cater for
the width of movement and various interpreters’ heights and sitting/standing
positions.

AS 1428.5—2010 56
8.4 GLARE
Glare shall be prevented as specified in AS/NZS 1680.1.
Solutions to prevent glare may include the following:
(a) Techniques such as fitting curtains or blinds, tinted low transmission glazing,
or adjustable opaque louvres at windows.
(b) Techniques such as appropriate choice of luminaires, use of light diffusers,
positioning luminaires away from the line of sight of the viewer, and use of low
reflectance surfaces.

57 AS 1428.5—2010
S E CT IO N 9 C A PTI O N IN G A N D C A R T
9.1 CAPTIONS
9.1.1 General
Captions shall be used to assist people in understanding the soundtrack of a
television, video, DVD or movie program. They shall also be used for the same
purpose on display screens at public events and other public situations. Captions
shall provide the soundtrack in text format so that it can be read by the viewer in
synchrony with the soundtrack. Captions shall also provide extensive descriptive
information to replace sounds, other than speech, that can not be heard by the
viewer. For example, if a movie has the sound of a telephone ringing, the captions
shall indicate that. If a television broadcast has background music, the captions
shall describe the music and identify the name by which the music is known. If a
song is being sung, the captions shall give the name of the song, the vocalist and
the songwriter.
Captions shall be provided in accordance with the Deafness Forum Captioning
Quality Code of Practice which specifies requirements for accuracy, completeness,
grammar, presentation, timing, editing, colouring, positioning, sounds effects, and
the like.
9.1.2 Closed captions
Closed captions are used for television programs. They are broadcast as part of the
program. They are called closed because teletext and/or a caption reader
equipment (such as digital set top box) is needed to display the text, which means
the viewer has the choice of whether or not to display the captions at any point in
time. Most television manufacturers have a number of teletext models in their
range. Teletext is a standard feature on many larger televisions. Likewise, captions
on DVDs and videos may be displayed or not, at the discretion of the viewer.
9.1.3 Open captions
Open captions are used for videos and for all movies screened in Australian
cinemas. They are called open because they are permanently displayed on the
screen and do not need any special equipment to be viewed.
9.1.4 Text size
Text character height for captioning shall be a minimum of 7.3% of the total display
height.
Characters shall be in upper and lower case and be a sans serif font, such as
Helvetica Medium or Arial.
9.2 REGULATION AND CODES FOR CAPTIONING OF TELEVISION AND

VIDEO
Australia has in place the Broadcasting Services (Digital TV Standard) Regulations
2000 (a free-to-air television code of practice) which require all free-to-air television
networks (including commercial licensees and national and regional broadcasters)
to caption all prime time broadcasts, plus all news and current affairs broadcasts at
any other time (from the time they commence, or will commence, using a digital
transmission signal). In addition, all of these networks are required to progressively
implement captioning on additional broadcasts in accordance with an agreed
timetable negotiated by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission
(HREOC).

AS 1428.5—2010 58
Captioning will also be progressively implemented (although to a lesser level), on a

further 20 subscription television channels within agreed timetables.
Some aspects of captioning are also part of the free-to-air networks’ ‘Code of
Practice’. This Code is managed by Free Television. The Code covers such issues
as ensuring that captioned programs are promoted as being captioned, both on
television and in the press; and that any technical problems with the captions are
fixed.
Television programs and videos produced in Australia shall be captioned in
accordance with the Deafness Forum’s Captioning Quality Code of Practice.
Television programs and videos obtained from overseas sources without captioning
shall be captioned in accordance with Deafness Forum’s Captioning Quality Code
of Practice.
Where these television programs and videos are captioned overseas, they are
deemed to be acceptable provided they are in accordance with either one of the
following:
(a) American style captions on American produced programs.
(b) British style captions on British produced programs.
9.3 CAPTIONING OF MOVIES FOR CINEMA SCREENING AND ON DVD

Movies produced in Australia for screening in cinemas and on DVDs shall be
captioned in accordance with the Deafness Forum’s Captioning Quality Code of
Practice. Where these TV programs and videos are captioned they are deemed to
be acceptable provided they are in accordance with any of the following:
(a) American style captions in American produced programs; or
(b) British style captions in British produced programs.
Movies and DVDs obtained from overseas sources without captioning shall be
captioned in accordance with Deafness Forum’s Captioning Quality Code of
Practice.
9.4 COMPUTER-AIDED REAL-TIME TRANSCRIPTION (CART)

9.4.1 General
Computer Aided Real-time Transcription (CART) or Computer-Aided Real-time
Translation is the instant translation of the spoken word into real-time text on
computer screens (no video picture), projected on walls, or shown on large
monitors, and the like.
CART is often referred to as real-time captioning. It is also referred to as
Communication Access Real-time Translation.
CART is used to assist people with deafness understand the spoken word. CART
shall be used in situations where ALSs are not available, or where a person is not a
user of ALS, lipreading or sign language.
9.4.2 Specifications
CART shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Characters shall have a minimum lower case height of 50 mm per 10 m of
viewing distance.
(b) Characters shall be in upper and lower case and be a sans serif font, such as
Helvetica Medium or Arial.

59 AS 1428.5—2010
(c) Lines of text—

(i) where transposed onto or below a picture display, shall have a minimum
of two lines; or
(ii) otherwise text shall be a minimum of six lines.
(d) Words shall be added a word at a time (that is, not character at a time or line
at a time).
(e) Text shall be added, not scrolled horizontally (that is each word, once typed,
will not move except as lines are added, when the whole line will move
upwards).
(f) Each line shall have a minimum width of 36 characters.
(g) Line numbers shall not be displayed.
(h) All lines of the CART shall be visible from all viewing positions and, where
more than one row of seats exist, shall be above 1.5 m from the finished floor
level.

AS 1428.5—2010 60
APPENDIX A
AFILS TEST AND MONITORING
(Normative)
A1 GENERAL
This Appendix sets out the testing procedures for compliance with Sections 4 and 5
of this Standard.
A2 MEASURING ACCURACY
The measuring accuracy shall be as follows:
(a) Time ................................................................................................... ±1%.
(b) Frequency ........................................................................................... ±2%.
(c) Distortion ......................................................................................... ±0.5%.
(d) Sound measurement .......................................................................... ±1 dB.
(e) Magnetic field strength ....................................................................... ±1 dB.
A3 MEASURING EQUIPMENT
Test equipment for measuring compliance shall consist of the following:
(a) Signal generator.
(b) Field strength tester.
(c) Noise and distortion meter.
A4 CALIBRATION
The calibration interval for test equipment shall be a maximum of two years.
A5 TEST METHOD
A5.1 General
Unless otherwise stated, the tests herein shall be performed on site using the
permanently installed AFILS.
A5.2 Frequency response
A5.2.1 General
Frequency response shall be checked by obtaining a reference magnetic field
strength measurement at 1 kHz, and measuring third octave frequencies from, to
and including 100 Hz to 5 kHz, as set out in Table A1.
The reference level of 6 dB below the knee of the compressor/AGC, or equivalent at
1 kHz, shall be used as the input signal level for all frequencies.

61 AS 1428.5—2010
A5.2.2 Procedure
The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Insert a 1 kHz sine wave into the compressor/AGC or equivalent that feeds the
AFILS, and adjust the input signal level to the knee of the compressor/AGC or
equivalent.
(b) Reduce the input signal level by 6 dB.
(c) Record the magnetic field strength at the weakest point inside the loop
cable—
(i) for fixed seating positions, 1.2 m above finished floor level; or
(ii) for non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above
finished floor level.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and, repeat Step (c) for all
frequencies listed in Table A1.
A5.3 Distortion
A5.3.1 General
Distortion shall be measured with a sine wave at frequencies of 500 Hz, 1 kHz and
2 kHz, and the results shall be recorded.
A5.3.2 Procedure
(a) Insert a 1 kHz sine wave and adjust the input signal level to the knee of the
compressor/AGC or equivalent.
(b) Increase the input signal level by 12 dB.
(c) Record the magnetic field strength distortion at 1 kHz.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and repeat step (c) for 500 Hz and
2 kHz.
A5.4 Compressor/AGC or equivalent
A5.4.1 General
The compressor/AGC or equivalent shall be checked with a sine wave at 1 kHz, and
the results shall be recorded. The difference in magnetic field strength shall vary by
less than or equal to 3 dB.
A5.4.2 Procedure
(a) Insert a 1 kHz sine wave, adjust the input signal level to the knee of the
compressor/AGC or equivalent and measure the magnetic field strength.
(b) Increase the input signal level by 30 dB and record the magnetic field
strength.
A5.5 Power source
Where patch bays are used, remove all patch cords, inspect the AFILS and ensure
that—
(a) it remains fully operational, including connection to the sound;
(b) the signal source is permanently connected to the AFILS; and

AS 1428.5—2010 62
(c) the AFILS is permanently connected to the same power source as the sound
source.
A5.6 Minimum magnetic field strength
A5.6.1 General
The input test signal level shall be 12 dB beyond the knee of the compressor/AGC
or equivalent or speech operating point.
A5.6.2 Procedure
(a) Insert a 1 kHz sine wave into the AFILS.
(b) Measure the magnetic field strength—
(ii) at the weakest point inside the listening area;
(iii) at the weakest measurement within an angle of ±15° tilted above or
below the line of sight from the measuring point to the centre of the
viewing area (see Note);
NOTE: The centre of the viewing area is defined in Clause 4.4.2.6.
(iv) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(v) for non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above
finished floor level; and
(vi) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
In the event that the AFILS amplifier is not capable of maintaining output for the
time taken to determine the weakest point inside the looped cable area, adjust the
amplifier output level down by approximately 6 dB to identify the measurement
reference point. Once this point has been identified, increase the output to the
required level to satisfy requirements and measure at the reference point.
A5.7 Maximum magnetic field strength
A5.7.1 General
The input test signal level shall be 12 dB beyond the knee of the compressor/AGC
or equivalent or speech operating point.
A5.7.2 Procedure
(a) Insert a 1 kHz sine wave into the AFILS.
(ii) at the strongest point inside the loop-cabled area;
(iii) at the strongest measurement within an angle of ±15° tilted above or
below the line of sight from the measuring point to the centre of the
viewing area;
(iv) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(v) for non-fixed seating positions, the stronger of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above
finished floor level; and
(vi) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.

63 AS 1428.5—2010
In the event that the AFILS amplifier is not capable of maintaining output for the
time taken to determine the strongest point inside the looped cable area, adjust the
amplifier output level down by approximately 6 dB to identify the measurement
reference point. Once this point has been identified, increase the output to the
required level to satisfy requirements and measure at the reference point.
A5.8 Background magnetic field strength
Measure the magnetic field strength—
(a) with the AFILS turned off;
(b) in the vertical plane;
(c) using ‘A’ weighting;
(d) taking the maximum measured level;
(e) at the strongest point inside the listening area;
(f) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(g) for non-fixed seating positions, the stronger of 1.2 m and 1.7 m above finished
floor level; and
(h) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time.
A5.9 Functional testing
(a) Use the normal sound source for the listening area, that is—
(i) a microphone in the fashion and at the levels at which the microphone in
the given situation will be used in real life; or
(ii) where a microphone is not used in the venue, a live signal source (e.g.,
a cinema will use a movie); and
(iii) with the input signal level set to the knee of the compressor/AGC or
equivalent.
(i) at the reference point, as specified in Paragraph A5.6, to verify sufficient
magnetic field strength at the weakest point in the listening area;
(ii) in the vertical plane;
(iii) at the weakest point inside the loop-cabled area—
(A) 1.2 m above finished floor level for fixed seating positions;
(B) for non-fixed seating positions, the weaker of 1.2 m and 1.7 m
above finished floor level;
(iv) using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time; and
(v) using peak hold.
(c) Listen with a loop receiver to test for clear reproduction of sound and to verify
sound quality and listening pleasure.

AS 1428.5—2010 64
A5.10 Loop receiver

(a) Use an ear simulator to test the output performance of a loop receiver. If an
ear simulator is not available, measure the voltage across the
(b) Test the acoustic output of the loop receiver with a normal sound source for
the AFILS, to verify clear communication.
(c) For loop receivers using incremental volume controls, use a sine wave input
and measure the incremental volume control steps and check that steps are
not greater than 2 dB.
NOTE: For loop receivers with continuously variable volume control the output should
vary in equal increments measured in decibels for similar rotational increments.
(d) Measure the loop receiver output at minimum and maximum volume control
setting and check that the range is equal to, or greater than, 30 dB.
(e) Verify that the loop receiver is provided with headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpieces.
(f) Measure battery current and calculate battery life by dividing the measured
current into the battery capacity in milliampere hours (mAh):
(i) When using non rechargeable batteries, they shall be unused and shall
last the duration of the expected use, plus a minimum of 20%.
(ii) When using rechargeable batteries, they shall be fully charged and when
new shall last 150% of the duration of the expected use, to allow for
degradation of batteries.
(iii) Headphones, stetoclips, earbuds and earpieces shall be stereo or
binaural. They shall not be monaural.
(g) Use an ear simulator to measure the maximum acoustic output of the
combined receiver and headphones, stetoclips, earbuds and earpieces. The
acoustic output shall be between 110 dB SPL and 125 dB SPL.
(h) Confirm that headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and any other item
used on, or in the ear, are cleaned between use.
(i) Check that the cleaning process meets Occupational Health and Safety
requirements.
A5.11 Signage
Signage shall be checked by inspection and shall comply with Section 5.
A6 AFILS TEST REPORT

The test results shall be recorded in a test report, complying with the requirements
set out in Table A1.
One test report is required for each loop-cabled area, while all loop-cabled areas
are in operation.
A test report shall be issued each time the equipment is tested, regardless of
whether or not the tests are passed.

65 AS 1428.5—2010
The compliant or non-compliant AFILS test report shall be provided to the owner,
and the tester shall retain a copy for a minimum period of 10 years from the date of
test.
The compliant or non-compliant AFILS test report shall contain the information set
out in Table A1.
TABLE A1
AFILS TEST REPORT
Information Details
Date
Name of tester
Company
Location
Room
Loop amplifier brand
Loop amplifier model
Loop amp serial number
Loop cable location
(e.g., in slab, under
carpet, in ceiling)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
Loop
Frequency response
Distortion
Compression/AGC
Power source
Signal to noise
Listening area
Minimum field strength
Maximum field strength
Background field
strength
Angle of field strength
Functional testing
Loop receivers
Quantity
Acoustic accessories
Signage
Symbol
Colour
Wording
Location—Entry
Location—Front
(continued)

AS 1428.5—2010 66
TABLE A1 (continued)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
PA
PA connection
Interference to PA
Every microphone
working
Notes:
Frequency response
Voltage in
100 Hz
125 Hz
160 Hz
200 Hz
250 Hz
315 Hz
400 Hz
500 Hz
630 Hz
800 Hz
1.00 kHz
1.25 kHz
1.60 kHz
2.00 kHz
2.50 kHz
3.15 kHz
4.00 kHz
5.00 kHz
Notes:

67 AS 1428.5—2010
A7 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Compliance shall be attached to the compliant AFILS test report,
and shall be issued each time the equipment is tested and all the tests are
compliant.
The Certificate of Compliance and attached compliant AFILS test report shall be
provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester shall retain a copy for a
minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
The Certificate of Compliance shall use the text and format set out in Figure A1.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
This is to certify that the equipment identified below
complies with the requirements of AS 1428.5—2009
Location:.......................................................................
Room: ..........................................................................
Serial No.: ....................................................................
Type of system: AFILS
Tester’s name: ..............................................................
Test date: .....................................................................
Signature: .....................................................................
FIGURE A1 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE—AFILS—TEXT AND FORMAT
A8 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Non-Compliance shall be attached to the non-compliant AFILS
test report, and shall be issued each time the equipment is tested and any of the
tests are non-compliant.
The Certificate of Non-Compliance and attached non-compliant AFILS test report
shall be provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester shall retain a copy for
a minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
The Certificate of Non-Compliance shall use the text and format set out in
Figure A2.
CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE
This is to certify that the equipment identified below does
not comply with the requirements of AS 1428.5—2009
Location:.......................................................................
Room: ..........................................................................
Serial No.: ....................................................................
Type of system: AFILS
Tester’s name: ..............................................................
Test date: .....................................................................
Signature: .....................................................................
FIGURE A2 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE—AFILS—TEXT AND FORMAT

AS 1428.5—2010 68
APPENDIX B
MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM TEST AND MONITORING
(Normative)
B1 GENERAL
of this Standard.
B2 MEASURING ACCURACY
(a) Time .................................................................................................... ±1%.
(b) Frequency ............................................................................................ ±2%.
(c) Distortion .......................................................................................... ±0.5%.
(d) Magnetic field strength........................................................................ ±1 dB.
(e) Electrical measurement.............................................. ±1% of indicated value.
B3 MEASURING EQUIPMENT
(b) Field strength tester (for testing magnetic background field strength levels and
neck loop levels).
B4 CALIBRATION
B5 TEST METHOD
B5.1 General
permanently installed modulated radio system.
B5.2 Frequency response
B5.2.1 General
Frequency response shall be checked by obtaining a reference audio signal
measurement at the receiver at 1 kHz, and measuring third octave frequencies
from, to and including 100 Hz to 5 kHz, as set out in Table B1.
The reference level of 6 dB, below the knee of the compressor/AGC or equivalent at

69 AS 1428.5—2010
B5.2.2 Procedure
transmitter, and adjust the input signal level to the knee of the
(c) Record the audio signal level at the audio output of the receiver.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and repeat Step (c) for all frequencies
listed in Table B1.
B5.3 Distortion
B5.3.1 General
Distortion shall be measured with a sine wave at frequencies of 500 Hz, 1 kHz and
2 kHz, and the results shall be recorded.
B5.3.2 Procedure
(c) Record distortion of the audio signal at the audio output of the receiver at
1 kHz.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and repeat Step (c) for 500 Hz and
2 kHz.
B5.4 Compressor/AGC or equivalent
B5.4.1 General
the results shall be recorded. The signal at the output of the receiver shall vary by
less than or equal to 3 dB.
B5.4.2 Procedure
compressor/AGC or equivalent and measure the level of the audio signal at
the output of the receiver.
(b) Increase the input signal level by 30 dB, and measure the level of the audio
signal at the output of the receiver.
B5.5 Power source
Where patch bays are used, remove all patch cords, inspect any modulated radio
transmitter(s) and ensure that—
(b) the signal source is permanently connected to the modulated radio
transmitter(s); and
(c) the modulated radio transmitter(s) is/are permanently connected to the same
power source as the sound source.

AS 1428.5—2010 70
B5.6 Receiver and accessories

(a) Use an ear simulator to test the output performance of a receiver. If an ear
simulator is not available, then measure the voltage across the
(b) Test the acoustic output of the receiver with a normal sound source for the
modulated radio system(s), to verify clear communication.
(c) For receivers using incremental volume controls, use a sine wave input and
measure the incremental volume control steps and check that steps are not
greater than 2 dB.
NOTE: For receivers with continuously variable volume control, the output should
vary in equal increments, measured in decibels for similar rotational increments.
(d) Measure the receiver output at minimum and maximum volume control setting
and check that the range is ≥30 dB.
(e) Verify that the receiver is provided with headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpieces.
(iii) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be stereo or binaural.
They shall not be monaural.
combined receiver and headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces. The
(h) Confirm that headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and any other items
requirements.
(j) Check that the output of the neck loop provides a minimum of −17 dB re 1 A/m
at ear level.
B5.7 Signal to noise ratio
(a) Measure the output background noise for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpiece listening systems as follows:
(i) Test with no acoustic or electrical speech input signal to the total
system, and with all component parts electrically powered.
(ii) Use an ear simulator to measure the acoustic output of the listening
system. (If an ear simulator is not available, measure the electrical signal
across the output listening device.)

71 AS 1428.5—2010
(iii) Measure the maximum A-weighted output noise level.

(b) Measure the output speech level for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpiece
listening systems as follows:
(i) Test with a 70 dB SPL acoustic speech input signal, or equivalent
electrical speech input signal to the total system, and with all component
parts electrically powered.
across the output listening device.)
(iii) Measure the long-time linear-weighted output speech level.
(c) Measure the output background noise at ear level for neck loops and induction
plate listening systems as follows:
(ii) Use an induction field strength tester to measure the acoustic output of
the listening system.
(d) Measure the output speech level at ear level for neck loops and induction
(i) Test with a 70 dB SPL acoustic speech input signal or equivalent
electrical speech input signal to the total system with all component
the listening system. If a suitably small induction field strength tester is
not available, measure the electrical signal across the output listening
device.
(iii) Measure the long-time linear weighted output speech level.
The signal to noise ratio is the ratio of the long-time linear-weighted output speech
signal to the maximum A-weighted output noise level. The result shall be stated as
decibels (dB), and shall be ≥15 dB.
An alternative method is to measure the maximum speech level (Steps (b)(iii)
and (d)(iii)), using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time and linear
weighting. The equivalent peak signal to noise ratio is the ratio of the maximum
speech level to the maximum A-weighted output noise level.
The results shall be stated in decibels (dB) and shall be greater than 21 dB for fast-
acting compressor/AGC or equivalent systems, and greater than 27 dB for other
than fast-acting compressor/AGC or equivalent systems.
B5.8 Signage
B6 MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM TEST REPORT

The test results shall be recorded in a test report and shall comply with the
requirements set out in Table B1.

AS 1428.5—2010 72
The compliant or non-compliant modulated radio system test report shall be

provided to the owner, and the tester shall retain a copy for a minimum period of
10 years from the date of test.
The compliant or non-compliant modulated radio system test report shall contain
the information set out in Table B1.
TABLE B1
MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM TEST REPORT
Information Details
Date
Name of tester
Company
Location
Room
Transmitter brand
Transmitter model
Transmitter serial number
Transmitter location
(e.g., in PA rack)
Receiver brand(s)
Receiver model(s)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
System
Frequency response
Distortion
Compression/AGC
Power source
Signal to noise
Listening area
Minimum field strength of
neck loops at ear level
Background field strength
Functional testing
Receivers
Number of receivers with
incorporated earpieces
socket for attachments
Number of attachments—
Earpieces/headsets
Neck loops
Inductive accessories
(continued)

73 AS 1428.5—2010
TABLE B1 (continued)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
Signage
Symbol
Colour
Wording
Location—Entry
Location—Front
PA
PA connection
Interference to PA
Every microphone working
Notes:
Frequency response
Voltage in
100 Hz
125 Hz
160 Hz
200 Hz
250 Hz
315 Hz
400 Hz
500 Hz
630 Hz
800 Hz
1.00 kHz
1.25 kHz
1.60 kHz
2.00 kHz
2.50 kHz
3.15 kHz
4.00 kHz
5.00 kHz
Notes:

AS 1428.5—2010 74
B7 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Compliance shall be attached to the compliant modulated radio
system test report, and shall be issued each time the equipment is tested and all
the tests are compliant.
The Certificate of Compliance and attached compliant modulated radio system test
report shall be provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester shall retain a
copy for a minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
The Certificate of Compliance shall use the text and format set out in Figure B1.
Location:......................................................................
Room: .........................................................................
Serial No: ....................................................................
Type of system: Modulated radio system
Tester’s name: .............................................................
Test date: ....................................................................
Signature: ....................................................................
FIGURE B1 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE—MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM—

TEXT AND FORMAT
B8 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Non-Compliance shall be attached to the non-compliant
modulated radio system test report, and shall be issued each time the equipment is
tested and any of the tests are non-compliant.
The Certificate of Non-Compliance and attached non-compliant modulated radio
system test report shall be provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester
shall retain a copy for a minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
Figure B2:

75 AS 1428.5—2010
Location:......................................................................
Room: .........................................................................
Serial No: ....................................................................
Type of system: Modulated radio system
Tester’s name: .............................................................
Test date: ....................................................................
Signature: ....................................................................
FIGURE B2 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE—MODULATED RADIO SYSTEM—

TEXT AND FORMAT

AS 1428.5—2010 76
APPENDIX C
INFRA-RED (IR) TEST AND MONITORING
(Normative)
C1 GENERAL
of this Standard.
C2 MEASURING ACCURACY
(a) Time .................................................................................................... ±1%.
(b) Frequency ............................................................................................ ±2%.
(c) Distortion .......................................................................................... ±0.5%.
(d) Magnetic field strength......................................................................... ±1dB.
(e) Electrical measurement.............................................. ±1% of indicated value.
C3 MEASURING EQUIPMENT
(b) Field strength tester (for testing magnetic background field strength levels and
neck loop levels).
C4 CALIBRATION
C5 TEST METHOD
C5.1 General
permanently installed infra-red system.
C5.2 Frequency response
C5.2.1 General
Frequency response shall be checked by obtaining a reference audio signal
measurement at the receiver at 1 kHz, and measuring third octave frequencies
from, to and including 100 Hz to 5 kHz, as set out in Table C1.
The reference level of 6 dB, below the knee of the compressor/AGC or equivalent at

77 AS 1428.5—2010
C5.2.2 Procedure
transmitter, and adjust the input signal level to the knee of the
compressor/AGC or equivalent
(c) Record the audio signal level at the audio output of the receiver.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and, repeat Step (c) for all
frequencies listed in Table C1.
C5.3 Distortion
C5.3.1 General
Distortion shall be measured with a sine wave at frequencies of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz
and 2 kHz, and the results shall be recorded
C5.3.2 Procedure
(c) Record distortion of the audio signal at the audio output of the receiver at
1 kHz.
(d) Maintain this constant input signal level and repeat Step (c) for 500 Hz and
2 kHz.
C5.4 Compressor/AGC or equivalent
C5.4.1 General
the results shall be recorded. The signal at the output of the receiver shall vary by
≤3 dB.
C5.4.2 Procedure
compressor/AGC or equivalent, and measure the level of the audio signal at
the output of the receiver.
(b) Increase the input signal level by 30 dB, and measure the level of the audio
signal at the output of the receiver.
C5.5 Power source
Where patch bays are used, remove all patch cords, inspect the infra-red
transmitter(s) and ensure that—
(b) the signal source is permanently connected to the infra-red transmitter(s); and
(c) the infra-red transmitter(s) are permanently connected to the same power
source as the sound source.

AS 1428.5—2010 78
C5.6 Receiver and accessories

(a) Use an ear simulator to test the output performance of a receiver. If an ear
simulator is not available, measure the voltage across the
(b) Test the acoustic output of the receiver with a normal sound source for the
infra-red system(s) to verify clear communication.
(c) For receivers using incremental volume controls, use a sine wave input and
measure the incremental volume control steps and check that steps are not
greater than 2 dB. For receivers with continuously variable volume control the
output should vary in equal increments, measured in decibels for similar
rotational increments.
(d) Measure the receiver output at minimum and maximum volume control setting
and check that the range is equal to or greater than 30 dB.
(e) Verify that the receiver is provided with headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpieces.
(iii) Headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces shall be stereo or binaural.
They shall not be monaural.
combined receiver and headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces. The
(h) Confirm that headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpieces and any other items
requirements.
(j) Check that the output of the neck loop provides a minimum of −17 dB re 1 A/m
at ear level.
C5.7 Signal to noise ratio
(a) Measure the output background noise for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/
earpiece listening systems as follows:
(i) Test with no acoustic or electrical speech input signal to the total system
and with all component parts electrically powered.
across the output listening device).

79 AS 1428.5—2010

(b) Measure the output speech level for headphones/stetoclips/earbuds/earpiece
(i) Test with a 70 dB SPL acoustic speech input signal, or equivalent
electrical speech input signal to the total system, and with all component
across the output listening device).
(c) Measure the output background noise at ear level for neck loop and induction
the listening system.
(d) Measure the output speech level at ear level for neck loop and induction plate
(i) Test with a 70 dB SPL acoustic speech input signal or, equivalent
electrical speech input signal to the total system with all component
the listening system. (If a suitably small induction field strength tester is
not available, measure the electrical signal across the output listening
device).
The signal to noise ratio is the ratio of the long-time linear weighted output speech
signal to the maximum A-weighted output noise level. The result shall be stated as
decibels (dB), and shall be ≥15 dB.
An alternative method is to measure the maximum speech level (in steps (b)(iii)
and (d)(iii)), using a true r.m.s. meter with 0.125 s averaging time and linear
weighting. The equivalent peak signal to noise ratio is the ratio of the maximum
speech level to the maximum A-weighted output noise level. The results shall be
stated in decibels (dB) and shall be greater than 21 dB for fast-acting
compressor/AGC or equivalent systems, and greater than 27 dB for other than fast-
acting compressor/AGC or equivalent systems.
C5.8 Signage
C6 INFRA-RED SYSTEM TEST REPORT

The test results shall be recorded in a test report, complying with the requirements
set out in Table C1.

AS 1428.5—2010 80
The compliant or non-compliant infra-red system test report shall be provided to the
owner, and the tester shall retain a copy for a minimum period of 10 years from the
date of test.
The compliant or non-compliant infra-red system test report shall contain the
information set out in Table C1.
TABLE C1
INFRA-RED SYSTEM TEST REPORT
Information Details
Date
Name of tester
Company
Location
Room
Transmitter brand
Transmitter model
Transmitter serial number
Transmitter location (e.g.,
in PA rack)
Receiver brand(s)
Receiver model(s)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
System
Frequency response
Distortion
Compression/AGC
Power source
Signal to noise
Listening area
Minimum field strength of
neck loops at ear level
Background field strength
Functional testing
Receivers
incorporated earpieces
socket for attachments
Earpieces/headsets
Neck loops
Inductive accessories
(continued)

81 AS 1428.5—2010
TABLE C1 (continued)
Compliant or
Details
non-compliant
Signage
Symbol
Colour
Wording
Location—Entry
Location—Front
PA
PA connection
Interference to PA
Every microphone
working
Notes:
Frequency response
Voltage in
100 Hz
125 Hz
160 Hz
200 Hz
250 Hz
315 Hz
400 Hz
500 Hz
630 Hz
800 Hz
1.00 kHz
1.25 kHz
1.60 kHz
2.00 kHz
2.50 kHz
3.15 kHz
4.00 kHz
5.00 kHz
Notes:

AS 1428.5—2010 82
C7 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Compliance shall be attached to the compliant infra-red system
test report, and shall be issued each time the equipment is tested and all the tests
are compliant.
The Certificate of Compliance and attached compliant infra-red system test report
shall be provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester shall retain a copy for
a minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
The Certificate of Compliance shall use the text and format set out in Figure C1:
Location: ..........................................................................
Room: ..............................................................................
Serial No: .........................................................................
Type of system: Infra-red system
Tester’s name: .................................................................
Test date:.........................................................................
Signature: ........................................................................
FIGURE C1 CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE—INFRA-RED—

TEXT AND FORMAT
C8 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE
The Certificate of Non-Compliance shall be attached to the non-compliant infra-red
system test report, and shall be issued each time the equipment is tested and any
of the tests are non-compliant.
The Certificate of Non-Compliance and attached non-compliant infra-red system
test report shall be provided to the owner, and the owner and the tester shall retain
a copy for a minimum period of 10 years from the date of test.
Figure C2.
Location: ..........................................................................
Room: ..............................................................................
Serial No: .........................................................................
Type of system: Infra-red system
Tester’s name: .................................................................
Test date:.........................................................................
Signature: ........................................................................
FIGURE C2 CERTIFICATE OF NON-COMPLIANCE—INFRA-RED—

TEXT AND FORMAT

83 AS 1428.5—2010
APPENDIX D
AUDIO FREQUENCY INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM (AFILS)
(Informative)
D1 INTRODUCTION
This Appendix provides guidance to architects and others in complying with the
Building Code of Australia, Section D3.7, Hearing Augmentation. It assumes
knowledge of building construction Standards and legislation.
The objective of this Appendix is to provide information that may assist in achieving
the BCA requirements for hearing augmentation for the majority of hearing-impaired
people.
NOTE: Sourced from the National Disability Services, ACT, 2003.
D2 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

A number of terms are currently in common use within the industry to describe the
audio induction loop. These terms include the following:
(a) Hearing augmentation (includes loop, FM, infra-red).
(b) Audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS).
(c) Powered audio induction loop system (PAILS).
(d) Hearing aid loop.
(e) Audio loop.
(f) Loop.
(g) Deaf aid loop (NOT TO BE USED).
D3 USE OF AUGMENTATION
Hearing impairment, which occurs to many people, especially if over 50 years age,
can be mild, moderate, severe or profound. Augmentation of sound will not help all
of the profoundly deaf as some have no hearing; they need subtitles or captions.
People with hearing impairment may try to compensate by using a hearing aid,
cochlear implant, or a loop receiver. If the hearing aid or cochlear implant has a
T-switch, and the room has an audio loop (correctly installed, and picking up sound
from the microphone of a specific speaker or sound source, whether wired or radio)
then the background noise can be reduced or eliminated.
A loop receiver is a pocket-sized device fitted with a T-switch and stethoscope style
earpieces, called a stetoclip.
There are two types of background noise. The first type is noise other than the
signal trying to be heard (e.g., airconditioning, audience chatter). The second type
is reverberation of the signal trying to be heard. Reverberation typically becomes an
impediment to understanding if the hearing-impaired person is greater than 1.5 m
from the sound source, although the exact distance varies between individuals and
circumstances. Hence, loop systems are commonly used in lounge rooms to assist
in understanding television programs. This is a clear example of the needs of
hearing-impaired people for hearing augmentation.

AS 1428.5—2010 84
For the AFILS system to be effective, the aim is to minimize the distance between
the source of sound and the listener should be minimized.
The signal received by a hearing-impaired person needs to be >15 dB above the
background noise level, i.e., signal to noise ratio (S/N) ≤15 dB.
D4 USE OF SPOKEN WORD

A hearing-impaired person can hear sounds, but their ears lose the faculty of—
(a) distinguishing the message of a specific speaker from the background noise
level;
(b) understanding the words due to reflections of the sound off walls, floors,
furnishings, etc; and
(c) the ability to cope with changes in level of sound, i.e., dynamic range.
The spoken word still needs to be clearly enunciated and not too fast. Seeing the
expression on a speaker’s face and body language is important as many use a
combination of hearing and lipreading to reinforce the spoken message.
D5 ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS)

D5.1 General
If the ALS is incorporated in the public address system, ensure that the ALS is
automatically operated with PA announcements.
In public buildings there are three options readily available, as outlined in
Paragraphs D5.2 to D5.4.
D5.2 Audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS)
The loop is located in or around the room. AFILS is suitable for most places of
worship, lecture theatres and auditoria, and is the preferred option for people with
hearing impairment. Generally, it is also the most cost-effective system.
It is estimated that 70% to 80% of hearing aids are fitted with a T-switch; however,
if a hearing aid does not have a T-switch, then a loop receiver with stetoclip or
headphones will be required to augment the sound level for a mild or moderately
hearing-impaired person. The advantage of the AFILS is the need to provide
receivers only for those without the T-switch, as both other types of systems require
a receiver to be provided for every user.
Electromagnetic signals can be affected by electronic apparatus and steel to
varying degrees. Electromagnetic waves also pass through walls, and hence loss of
privacy is possible. AFILS works indoors and outdoors. It is relatively cheap to
provide and, once installed, requires minimal administrative assistance apart from
periodic checks for being in working order.
If there are other loop systems close by, the problem of overlap of sound should be
addressed. This is a serious problem if the auditoria are next to or above one
another. There are various ways to resolve this overlap; however, experts will need
to be consulted while the design is still in its early stages.
There are many unsatisfactory audio-magnetic loop installations. It is an area for
the specialist, rather than the average electrical consultant or contractor.
Consultation may be necessary at the early design stage as well as when the
building is under construction.
Many telephone handsets have a coil with a T-switch on the hearing aid, which cuts
out the background noise.

85 AS 1428.5—2010
One concern when installing an AFILS is the interference caused by electrical

cabling or, in some cases, nearby electronic/electrical equipment.
D5.3 Frequency modulation (FM)
The FM system consists of a base station transmitter and individual receivers for
each user. Attachments are also required for each user, that is, neck loops for
users with a T-switch on their hearing aids, and headphones or stetoclips for the
remainder of users.
For lecture tours, the same receivers and attachments are used, but with a personal
transmitter and lapel microphone.
With FM systems, radio waves pass through walls; hence loss of privacy is
possible. FM systems may be used both indoors and outdoors.
If there are loop systems close by, the problem of overlap of sound have to be
addressed. There are various ways to resolve this overlap; therefore, the experts
have to be consulted while the design is still in its early stages.
D5.4 Infra-red (IR)
IR listening systems require a special headphone receiver and a clear path from
transmitter to receiver (i.e., line of sight), unobstructed by people’s limbs and
objects, even by paper.
Attachments are also required for each user—neck loops for users with a T-switch
on their hearing aids, and headphones or stetoclips for the remainder of users.
Alternatively, different types of receivers may be used to achieve the same result.
Walls are a barrier and hence privacy is assured.
Infra-red (IR) listening systems are not suitable for outdoor use, as sunlight disrupts
the IR signal, nor are IR systems suitable for use in rooms with direct sunlight.
As with AFILS, IR is commonly used for listening to the television and radio in the
home.
In public buildings, IR is rarely used except where privacy is absolutely necessary,
due to the large radiators required for rooms more than 6 m long, line of sight
restrictions, and cost effectiveness compared to the alternatives.
If there are loop systems close by, the problem of overlap of sound has to be
addressed. There are various ways to resolve this overlap; however, the experts
should be consulted while the design is still in its early stages.
D6 AUDIO LOOP INSTALLATION

D6.1 Aim of AFILS
An audio frequency induction loop system (AFILS) ensures the following:
(a) Reasonable magnetic field strength as per AS 60118.4 within the working area
at ear level (1.2 m sitting, 1.7 m standing).
(b) Minimal overspill, as overspill could cause interference with other similar
systems or compromise confidentiality.
(c) Acceptably uniform magnetic field strength over frequency range 100 Hz to
5000 Hz, per AS 60118.4. To achieve this, current amplifiers, not voltage
amplifiers, have to be used in order to obtain uniform field strength at all
frequencies in the speech band. Public address amplifiers and wiring circuits
are not suitable for AFILS.

AS 1428.5—2010 86
(d) Adequate signal processing to achieve compression/limiting so that the

variation in output level is <3 dB for a variation of input signal of 30 dB.
(e) Adequate loop receivers for users without T-switch.
(f) Coverage over all classes of seating.
D6.2 Location of AFILS
The location of an AFILS in a room or area may be—
(a) around the perimeter of the listeners, ensuring the cable is more than 0.75 m
outside the listening area, as the signal from the cabling will not be picked up
directly above or below the cable;
(b) at floor level, up to 3 m above floor level, or just under the floor; or
(c) the loop of wire (or 2 wires) may rise and fall at doors or windows.
Where steel reinforcing or significant amounts of ferrous materials are present, the
loop can not be wider than 10 m.
The loop cabling should not be laid beneath steel reinforcing or in ceiling steel
channel struts.
NOTE: Loop cabling should not have steel or ferrous materials between the loop cabling
and the users, as the ferrous materials will shield the signal from the user.
D6.3 Loop installation
The loop installation may be one of the following:
(a) One or 2 wires. More than 2 wires can not be used as frequency response
requirements are otherwise practically unachievable.
(b) In a plastic conduit (about 20 mm diameter) with post installation access
points at corners and bends.
(c) Under the skirting board.
(d) Under the carpet (with or without underfelt).
(e) Up to 400 mm below the floor surface if no ferrous materials are used in the
floor construction.
Loop installation can not have any other electrical wiring running parallel within
200 mm. If electric in-slab-heating is installed, the relationship of the loop wire(s) to
the slab wires needs consideration.
Adjacent loop cables have to run in the same conduit, or within 20 mm of each
other.
The size of the cable (0.5 to 2.5 mm 2 multistrand generally, but sometimes a flat
cable) has to be calculated to suit the room size, the cable length, and the specific
amplifier used to drive it.
NOTE: For teller counter situations, see Paragraph D7.5.6.1.

87 AS 1428.5—2010
D7 GENERAL GUIDANCE
D7.1 Signage
An example of signage requirements is shown in Figure D1.
FIGURE D1 SIGNAGE

AS 1428.5—2010 88
D7.2 Hearing aids

For a hearing aid with an electromagnetic induction ‘T’ coil (T-switch), the strongest
audio reception is within the loop but there is some spill outside the loop.
Hearing aids have a blind spot, which needs to be considered in locating the loop.
The width of the blind spot either side of the cable varies according to distance. An
approximate rule of thumb is 500 mm either side of cable if in the floor and
1000 mm either side of cable if in the ceiling. An example of a hearing aid is shown
in Figure D2.
FIGURE D2 HEARING AID
D7.3 Construction details

The loop may be located in a range of positions (see Figure D3).
The following should be observed:
(a) No other electric wires to be parallel to loop within at least 200 mm.
(b) No high voltage wires to cross the loop area; however, 240 V wires may cross
the loop.
FIGURE D3 CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
D7.4 Additional considerations

The following should be taken into consideration:
(a) AFILS designers/installers need particular expertise and experience beyond
that practised by many electrical contractors.
(b) Electromagnetic sound passes through walls.
(c) If security is required, IR or multiple small loud speakers should be considered
(that is, a pair of speakers, for every seat, mounted in the seat).
(d) Steelwork, electrical cabling and some airconditioning equipment can result in
unusable electromagnetic reception if not designed and installed correctly.

89 AS 1428.5—2010
(e) Installers need to check the system with a magnetic field strength meter to
ensure compliance with AS 60118.4, and with a loop receiver to ensure the
signal is distortion and interference free.
(f) Spillover control systems are also available if all of two adjacent rooms are to
be looped or spill-over outside a room is to be controlled. This is achieved by
additional active loops to resolve interference; however, it is usually at a
significant cost.
D7.5 Loop locations
D7.5.1 Small rooms 100–200m 2
For small rooms guidance on loop location is shown in Figure D4.
FIGURE D4 LOOP LOCATION—SMALL ROOMS
D7.5.2 Long rooms if two loops installed

Guidance on loop location (if two loops are installed) for long rooms is shown in
Figure D5.
FIGURE D5 LOOP LOCATION—LONG ROOMS

AS 1428.5—2010 90
D7.5.3 Large rooms

The loop should cover all of the auditorium area; however, in larger auditoria or in
multiple auditoria it is recommended that the loop be on one side in preference to
the back or front (see Figure D6).
FIGURE D6 LOOP LOCATION—LARGE ROOMS

91 AS 1428.5—2010
D7.5.4 Plan for multiple rooms on same level

Loops in adjacent areas should be on the left or right side in preference to the back
or front. Specialist advice is required for the design, to ensure spillover between
loops is avoided, as the minimum separation distance between loops varies
according to the size and orientation of loops.
Care is also required when a loop is installed in the ceiling of a room under or
adjacent to an area covered by loop, FM or IR on the floor above.
Plans for multiple rooms are shown in Figure D7.
FIGURE D7 PLAN FOR MULTIPLE ROOMS
D7.5.5 Section
A section of a room with a loop is shown in Figure D8.
FIGURE D8 SECTION

AS 1428.5—2010 92
D7.5.6 Bank and teller counters

D7.5.6.1 Loop design
Loop design for bank and teller counters is shown in Figure D9.
FIGURE D9 BANK AND TELLER COUNTERS—LOOP DESIGN

93 AS 1428.5—2010
D7.5.6.2 Loop amplifier

A typical loop amplifier is shown in Figure D10.
NOTES:
1 Use current drive in loop amplifiers instead of voltage drive for adequate reception throughout the
speech range (100 Hz to 5000 Hz), which is important for intelligibility of speech.
2 Allow for ventilation of loop amplifiers.
3 Loop wires vary—from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm diameter or can be a flat cable 18 mm wide to suit room
size.
4 The amplifier may be fed with the signal from a wired or radio microphone, or an output from a PA
system.
5 After correct installation, the loop system needs to be checked for magnetic field strength,
frequency response and clarity. The signal to noise ratio has to be within prescribed limits for
clarity and effectiveness. A calibrated field strength tester and a loop receiver are required for
testing the AFILS. Further adjustments are rarely necessary, but absolutely necessary if the PA
system is modified.
6 A written user manual related to the system installed is necessary. The manual should show how
to operate the system, the location of loop cable, its diameter and the measuring data (see Note 5
above).
7 Building owners without hearing loss can verify loop operation on an ongoing basis using the loop
receivers provided for hearing-impaired users without T-switch.
FIGURE D10 LOOP AMPLIFIER
D8 SAMPLE SPECIFICATION—OUTLINE
D8.1 General
An AFILS provides an ALS for hearing-impaired people.
An AFILS consists of—
(a) loop amplifier;
(b) loop cable;
(c) test receiver;
(d) loop receivers; and
(e) other equipment as required.

AS 1428.5—2010 94
D8.2 Subcontractor
The ALS has to be installed by a specialist subcontractor with experience in
installing an AFILS.
D8.3 Standard loop amplifier
A typical loop amplifier will need—
(a) transconductance amplifier;
(b) output current of 10 A continuous into 2 Ω;
(c) input compression of 30 dB input, 3 dB output;
(d) balanced microphone input, with switchable phantom power;
(e) balanced line input;
(f) output metering;
(g) bar graph for output signal;
(h) separate indication for threshold of compression;
(i) separate indication for 8 dB to 10 dB into compression;
(j) total harmonic distortion 0.5%;
(k) frequency response 3 dB 100 Hz ≤5 kHz;
(l) min 6 dB per octave roll off from 6 kHz;
(m) short-circuit protection; and
(n) two rack units (2RU) (allow one rack unit for ventilation).
D8.4 Connection
The input of the loop amplifier has to be connected to the—
(a) line output of the public address system (when a public address system is
supplied by others);
(b) audio out of the television (when a television is supplied or expected to be
supplied); and
(c) output of the radio microphone receivers (one UHF diversity lapel radio
microphone system and one UHF hand-held diversity radio microphone
system to be supplied by the ALS subcontractor when no public address
system is supplied by others).
D8.5 Location
The loop amplifier has to be located in the public address system rack (rack with
adequate space to be provided by others, where a public address system is
provided).
The loop amplifier has to be located in a vertical wall-mounted cupboard (vertical
wall-mounted cupboard to be supplied by the ALS subcontractor when no public
address system is supplied by others).
D8.6 Loop
The loop has to include an insulated figure 8 cable with a continuous colour
identification stripe along the entire length of the cable. The colour identification
stripe will need to be of a different colour to the insulation colour. The loop cable
resistance has to be matched to the loop amplifier, and the cable has to be
specified and supplied by the loop subcontractor.

95 AS 1428.5—2010
Where a wooden floor is to be installed on a concrete floor, the loop has to be

installed adjacent to and within 200 mm of the perimeter walls of the room above
concrete slab and below false flooring. Notching flooring battens will allow for loop
installation.
Where a concrete floor is to be covered directly with the flooring, the loop has to be
installed adjacent to and within 200 mm of the perimeter walls of the room, in the
concrete slab, above all steel reinforcing.
The loop cable has to be continuous without joints or connections.
The loop cable has to be installed in 19 mm conduit with draw-in boxes located on
the room perimeter walls. Boxes have to be labelled ‘AUDIO LOOP SYSTEM’.
Figure 8 cable has to be used for redundancy purposes, or to create 2 turns for
small loops only where required.
D8.7 Notices
The international symbol for deafness needs to be in a prominent position in the
room indicating that an ALS is installed. The symbol should comply with AS 1428.2.
The size of the sign is to be a minimum of A4.
Provide a notice detailing how the system works and the procedures for testing the
system adjacent to the amplifier.
D8.8 Test devices
One test receiver needs to be provided.
Two loop receivers have to be provided for hearing-impaired users with hearing
aids. The number to be supplied is 5% of the maximum number of people to be in
the looped area at one time. Loop receivers are to be supplied with one stetoclip for
each receiver.
A training and instruction manual has to be provided.
Staff training, to ensure staff are aware of how an AFILS works and the need to
have it turned on and tested regularly, has to be provided.
D8.9 Testing and commissioning
A commissioning has to be carried out with a hearing aid to test clarity of speech,
music and for interference at the weakest point.
The field strength has to be tested using a calibrated magnetic field strength meter.
A 1 kHz sinusoidal test signal has to be used. The field strength has to be
measured at the weakest place inside the loop. The magnetic field strength level
has to meet the required level in this Standard.
Loop current has to be checked for compliance with the frequency response of
100 Hz–5 kHz, and roll off at a minimum of 6 dB per octave above 6 kHz.
Compression of 30 dB has to be checked, ensuring the threshold of compression is
set for soft speech.
A procedure for routinely testing and monitoring, using a loop receiver, has to be
detailed and staff trained in its use. In addition the procedure has to include the
testing of the level of the loop system, and listening to the clarity of speech and
music through the system.
D8.10 Signage
Signage has to be supplied and installed in accordance with this Standard.

AS 1428.5—2010 96
BIBLIOGRAPHY
AS
1191 Acoustics—Methods for laboratory measurement of airborne sound
transmission insulation of building elements
2253 Methods for field measurement of the reduction of airborne sound
transmission in buildings
2822 Acoustics—Methods of assessing and predicting speech privacy and
speech intelligibility
60118 Hearing aids
60118.4 Part 4: Magnetic field strength in audio-frequency induction loops for
heating aid purposes
AS/NZS
1088 Hearing aids
1088.9 Part 9: Immunity requirements and methods of measurement for
hearing aids exposed to radiofrequency fields in the
frequency range 300 MHz to 3 GHz
1276 Acoustics—Rating of sound insulation in buildings and of building
elements
1276.1 Part 1: Airborne sound insulation
2460 Acoustics—Measurement of the reverberation time in rooms
ISO
8201 Acoustics—Audible emergency evacuation signal
IEC
60118 Electroacoustics—Hearing aids
60118-4 Part 4: Induction loop systems for hearing aid purposes—Magnetic
field strength
60268 Sound system equipment
60268-16 Part 16: Objective rating of speech intelligibility by speech
transmission index
BCA Building Code of Australia
Broadcasting Services (Digital Television Format Standards) Regulations 2000
NATIONAL DISABILITY SERVICES, ACT (2003), ‘AFILS Audio Frequency
Induction Loop Systems’

NOTES
NOTES
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AS 1428.

Design for access and mobility

Part 5: Communication for people who

The following are represented on Committee ME-064:

• Association of Consultants in Access Australia

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 07014.

Keeping Standards up-to-date

Standards Australia welcomes suggestions for improvements, and encourages readers to

Approved for reconfirmation in accordance with Standards Australia procedures for

The following are represented on Technical Committee ME-064:

Design for access and mobility

Part 5: Communication for people who

First published as AS 1428.5—2010.

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION

SECTION 2 HEARING LOSS

SECTION 3 SITUATIONS REQUIRING HEARING AUGMENTATION

SECTION 4 REQUIREMENTS FOR ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS(ALSs)

SECTION 6 REQUIREMENTS FOR WARNING AND ALERTING SYSTEMS

SECTION 7 COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

SECTION 8 LIGHTING SPECIFICATIONS

SECTION 9 CAPTIONING AND CART

EFFECTS OF HEARING LOSS AND POSSIBLE DESIGN SOLUTIONS

Degree of Average hearing Possible hearing

Normal hearing 0–20 dB HL Good acoustic environment

Does not rely on hearing as Requires signing or

Part 5: Communication for people who are deaf or hearing impaired

1.3 NORMATIVE REFERENCES

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

1.4.3 Auslan (Australian Sign Language)

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

1.4.10 Hearing augmentation

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

1.4.23 Signal to noise ratio (S/N)

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

GSM Global system for mobile communication

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.3 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs)

2.4 IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

2.5 INCIDENCE OF HEARING LOSS IN AUSTRALIA

2.6 DEGREES OF HEARING LOSS AND COMMUNICATION

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

2.6.4 Severe hearing loss and communication

2.7 EXCESSIVE NOISE LEVELS

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

3.2 PUBLIC MEETING AREAS

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

3.4 COUNTERS AND SIMILAR SITUATIONS

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

3.6 TRANSPORT CONVEYANCES

3.7 SECURITY BARRIERS

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

(e) financial institutions;

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

4.2 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS (ALSs)

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

4.3 ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS) SPECIFICATIONS

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia

4.3.5 Power source

© Standards Australia www.standards.org.au

4.4 AUDIO FREQUENCY INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM (AFILS)

www.standards.org.au © Standards Australia